Hawks fizzle out against Benedictine

ECS staff report

SANTA CLARITA —- The residual effects of COVID-19 were evident as the San Diego Christian College men’s basketball team melted in the final minutes, falling to Benedictine University at Mesa, 87-76 in Thursday’s (Dec. 30) GSACCalPac Shootout contest held at The Master’s University.

The Hawks led throughout, but without a full practice, since their exhibition game against San Diego State was canceled last week, the opponent came on strong while SDCC wilted down the stretch.

The other tournament contest slated Westcliff University of Irvine in the battle between both the southwest USA’s NAIA conferences was canceled due to COVID.within the Warriors.

San Diego Christian mounted a 43-35 advantage by halftime but were outscored10-2 to open the second half to find both ballclubs level at 45-all. The run continued with another 11-4 margin, allowing the RedHawks (3-8) to coast home.

SDCC (2-12)  rode the hot shooting of Josh O’Campo and Kyle Ruiz in the first half. O’Campo’s 4-for-5 tally in the opening half included a perfect 3-for-3 from three-point range. Ruiz added an additional two treys to give the Hawks an 8-point advantage at the break.