AZUSA, Calif – APU hosted the Dominican University Penguins on Saturday, but were unable to overcome a strong second half as they lost 75-68 at the Felix Event Center.

Shad Thomas continued his tremendous form, finishing tied for first in scoring with 20 points. Thomas was also the game leader in rebounds with 9, just one short of four straight double-doubles. Caleb Oden had the third highest point total of the game with 15, and added 6 rebounds (second-most of the game). 

The opening 4 minutes of the first half proved to be a back and forth affair, with the lead changing hands four times. After this, the Cougars were forced to play catch up as they trailed for the next 12 and a half minutes. With just under 3 minutes remaining in the half, a DM Sanders jumpshot brought the Cougars even, and they would go into the break tied 34-34.

The second half began much like the first ended, seeing the Penguins gain a lead and hold it for the opening 10 minutes. APU clawed themselves back again, even taking the lead briefly with 9 minutes remaining. Shooting efficiency proved to be the difference maker to close out the game, as Dominican had a FG% which was 20 percentage points higher than Azusa, and 15 percentage points from behind the arc. Despite getting within 2 points multiple times, APU was unable to pick up a lead again, and lost 75-68.

Up Next: Azusa Pacific (6-11 and 4-8 in the PacWest) look ahead to their next PacWest matchup, when they host the Hawaii Pacific Sharks. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30pm on Monday, February 2nd at the Felix Event Center.