Tough game for Banchero as he dealt with a defense focused entirely on stopping him and with foul trouble. Banchero picked up two early fouls so was only able to play in six minutes of the first half. The question has been asked all season, how good is SPU without Banchero, as his phenomenal play early on has lead the team. The first half answered that question, as his teammates rallied with him watching on the bench. Sub Ryan Anderson exploded for 17 first half points, picking up for the offense that Banchero would have provided.

In the second half Banchero still did not get his scoring going until the very end, but he was still able to help his team as he directed the offense, ending the game with 5 assists, right around his team-leading average. With two minutes left and his team up by only one point, Banchero scored two crucial baskets, one on a gorgeous runner off the right wing, the other off a pull-up from the elbow. Those two baskets secured a 74-71 victory for the team.

This was a great win for the team, as they proved that on an off night for Banchero they are still competitive. As well, after losing a close game against Western Oregon two days earlier, it was good to see the Falcons remain composed and poised to close out a game.

The next games are the annual road trip up to Alaska on 1/6 against