CALGARY – The Jack Simpson Gym will host two of the best in the nation this weekend, as the No. 5 University of Calgary Dinos take on the No. 4 UBC Thunderbirds. The Dinos' home opener comes after travelling to Prince George and defeating the UNBC Timberwolves.
DETAILS:
- Date: Friday, Nov. 3 and Saturday, Nov. 4
- Time: 8 p.m. MT Friday and 7 p.m. MT Saturday
- Venue: Jack Simpson Gymnasium
HEADLINES:
- The two programs eluded each other last season despite finishing as the two best teams in Canada West. Both teams are looking to remain atop the CW standings after sweeping their opening games.
- The Thunderbirds were upset by the Manitoba Bisons in the CW quarterfinals last season, ending their bid to travel to the U SPORTS Final 8 alongside Calgary.
No. 5 CALGARY DINOS (2-0)
- The challenging preseason has paid early dividends for the Dinos, who have gained national recognition following their wins against McGill and Ryerson.
- Fourth-year guard Mambi Diawara was named CW First Star of the Week following his 38 and 25 point performances in their opening games.
- Calgary's team defence limited the Timberwolves to just 53 points in the season opener, but will face a greater test against the top ranked offence in CW this weekend.
No. 4 UBC THUNDERBIRDS (2-0)
- Freshman Grant Shepard made the most of his opportunity following the injury to U SPORTS First Team All Canadian Connor Morgan. Shepard recorded a double-double in the Thunderbird's win over the University of Fraser Valley Cascades.
- Phil Jalapoor continued his 3pt barrage to start the season, shooting 53.8% from long range last weekend. This comes on the heels of his UBC record breaking 11 3pt made against the University of Saskatchewan Huskies during the preseason.
- The Thunderbirds balanced attack was on full display against the Cascades. The bench went for 57 points, and eight players scored more than ten points to put the Thunderbirds over the century mark for the second consecutive game.
