MBB | Vees Control Guelph in Sudbury Arena Showcase
The Laurentian Men's Basketball team earned its second straight victory on Saturday night, defeating the Guelph Gryphons 76-65 in the third annual game at Sudbury Arena. Playing in the home of the Sudbury Wolves and Sudbury Five, the Voyageurs delivered a composed four-quarter performance in front of a larger-than-usual crowd, improving to 10-8 on the season.
A year after the team's electric buzzer-beating win, the Vees had a lot to live up to, which they did from the get-go. Laurentian set the tone early, jumping out to a quick lead in the opening frame. Brice Fandio sparked the offence with a pair of jumpers and a three, while Toby Ezenwa finished in transition to help the Vees build a healthy 21-12 advantage after one. Ismael Komate made his presence felt on the glass, creating extra possessions that kept the pressure on Guelph.
The second quarter saw the Gryphons respond, cutting into the deficit with improved ball movement and second-chance points. Laurentian weathered the push behind steady scoring from Fandio and To Randriasalama, heading into halftime with a 37-30 lead.
Laurentian maintained control coming out of the break. Konate knocked down a three in the third quarter before finishing inside, while Matthew Djanashvili and Daniel Muila-Mwaka contributed around the rim. A stocked Vees defence limited Guelph's looks, allowing Laurentian to stretch the lead to eight, finishing the quarter with 51-43 on the scoreboard.
The Voyageurs shut the door in the fourth. Konate continued to dominate inside, scoring on back-to-back possessions and cleaning the glass, while Fandio attacked off the dribble and converted at the free-throw line. Laurentian didn't let off the gas, as they sealed the game with a 76-65 win.
Fandio led all scorers with 29 points, adding six assists and three steals, while Konate recorded another impressive outing with 14 points and nine rebounds himself. Ezenwa chipped in seven points, and Muila-Mwaka added nine off the bench. As the Voyageurs turn their attention ahead, just four games remain in the regular season, with Laurentian looking to carry momentum into the playoff push.
- Brendan Rubin