Exhibition: UFV Cascades defeat Idaho State University Bengals, 71-69

ABBOTSFORD, B.C. - The University of the Fraser Valley Cascades (CWUAA-CIS) defeated Idaho State University Bengals (Big Sky Conference-NCAA), 71-69, to win their second straight exhibition game against an NCAA Division One Men's Basketball opponent.  The game was played at UFV's Envision Athletic Centre. 
 
The Cascades came out strong and opened with a quick four-point lead, before the Bengals recovered from the long journey from Pocatello, Idaho to go on an eight point run to close out the first quarter with a 20-15 lead.  The Cascades chipped away at the Bengal lead in the second quarter and was able to tie the game with under one minute remaining in the first half.  Two quick shots by Idaho State sent the visiting team into the intermission with a 3-point advantage, 36-33. 
 
In the second half the Cascades started to make their move as they played tremendous defense holding Idaho State to 12-third quarter points and in the fourth quarter the Cascades speed and accurate shooting were too much for their NCAA visitors as they overcame their 3-point deficit to win their second straight game by 2-points, 71-69, over an NCAA opponent. 
 
The Cascades were led by Joel Friesen, Abbotsford, BC with a 23-point performance.  Veteran Guard Sam Freeman, Burnaby, BC added 16-points, 4-steals and 5-total rebounds in the victory over Idaho State.  "These two games have been amazing for our team confidence," said Freeman.  "We played well as a team down the stretch, we were not intimidated by the bigger NCAA opponent, 'said the third year Guard.   Sheldon Bjorgaard, Abbotsford, BC added 10-points and 8-assists as he rounded out the Cascades in double figures.   Josh Kufske, Abbotsford, BC led the Cascades with 11-total rebounds as UFV out rebounded Idaho State 46 to 45 for the game.
 
"I was impressed with our work ethic tonight, our team play looks promising, " said Head Coach Barnaby Craddock.  "The team is working together and style of basketball we are playing right now will help us improve for the upcoming CWUAA regular season."  
 
The Bengals were led by Deividas Busma, Klaipeda, Lithuania, with 23-points.  Chase Grabau, Boulder. Colorado was the only other Bengal in double figures with 10-points.  Top rebounder for Idaho State was Busma with 12 boards. 
 
Idaho State  20  16  12  21  =  69
Cascades     15  18  13  25  =  71
 
Team Rebounds
Idaho State:  14+31=45/UFV 18+28=46
 
Top Scorers:
Idaho State:  Busma 23-points/UFV; Friesen 23-points

Source:

UFV Sports Info