Westmont shot 64 percent from the field, including 57 percent (4 of 7) from three-point land and pulled away to a 80-59 basketball victory at Menlo on Friday night.
Senior forward C.J. Miller (20 points on 9 of 12 shooting, 4 rebounds) was particularly fiery, scoring 10 of the Warriors’ initial 12 points to open the game. Junior center Daniel Carlin (8 points, 9 rebounds) manhandled the glass early, recording five rebounds in the first 10 minutes of play.
However, each player was tagged with two first-half fouls, prompting Westmont head coach John Moore to recall them both to the bench. Nevertheless, supported by their accurate shooting, the Warriors finished the half with a 34-28 advantage.
Senior forward Jason Ritchey stole the show in the second half, scoring 16 of his game-high 22 points in the latter 20 minutes. Ritchey shot 8 of 11 from the floor.
“We started both halves well, and played great on defense in the second (half),” commented Moore. “(Menlo was) stuck on 46 for about 8 straight possessions, which really helped to build our lead.”
Westmont made 28 of 44 shots from the floor.
Contributions from senior guards Brendan Hill (2 points, 5 assists) and Mantas Drungys (11 points on 3 of 4 shooting, 3 rebounds), along with junior guard Nate Marsing (8 points on 3 of 3 shooting) amplified the Warrior lead as well.
