Benedictine University Mesa

The Benedictine University Mesa men's basketball team opened its season with a hard-fought 89-88 loss to Stanton College on Wednesday evening at the PEC. The Redhawks led by as many as 17 points in the first half and shot an impressive 58.9 percent from the field, but Stanton used a strong second-half rally and a pair of free throws in the final 15 seconds to escape with the one-point victory. 

Benedictine came out firing early, building a 19-2 lead less than seven minutes into the contest behind a flurry of three-pointers from Michael Sarden and Elijah Edwards. The Redhawks maintained control for much of the opening half, getting strong performances inside from Taevon Pierre-Louis and Alex Riddick while carrying a 41-40 advantage into halftime. 

The second half featured 10 ties and multiple lead changes as neither team could create separation. Stanton connected on six second-half three-pointers and received clutch scoring from Peter Amakasu and Donovan Ford to keep pace with the Redhawks. Benedictine answered repeatedly, including a go-ahead three-pointer from Sarden with 1:38 remaining that put the hosts in front 86-83. 

After Stanton tied the game and eventually took an 87-86 lead following a late steal and layup, Ah-Zion Applewhaite calmly converted two free throws with 30 seconds left to give the Redhawks an 88-87 advantage. Stanton responded on the next possession when Tristan Griffin knocked down two free throws with 15 seconds remaining to put the visitors back in front, 89-88. Benedictine had one final opportunity, but a last-second shot would not fall as Stanton secured the victory. 

Pierre-Louis led the Redhawks with a near triple-double, recording 18 points, 16 rebounds, and six assists. Sarden added 20 points on 7-of-11 shooting, including six three-pointers, while Applewhaite scored 13 points. Riddick provided an all-around effort with 11 points, six rebounds, three steals, and two blocks. Edwards chipped in nine points, all from beyond the arc.