Box Score
Arcata, Calif. -- Academy of Art University men's basketball is still in search of the season's first win after dropping a 90-48 decision to Humboldt State in the seventh annual Lawrence DeBeni Classic at HSU's East Gym. Three Urban Knights turned in nine-point performances highlighted by a strong night from junior forward Jonathan Burnett who added six rebounds, three blocks, and two steals. AAU is now 0-7 overall and HSU improves to 4-3.
Humboldt State utilized a pressing man-to-man defense early on and jumped out to a 21-2 lead to open the first period. The Urban Knights then fought back with an 8-4 run midway through the half to decrease the margin.
“I think we just slowed down a little bit and stopped trying to go too fast,” Head Coach Mark Sembrowich said. “Once we broke their press, we were able to do that. It wasn't always possible, but it worked out when we did.”
Although the scoreboard read 48-21 with the Jacks in front after the first 20 minutes of action, Academy of Art played significantly better following the halftime intermission. Using patience on offense, AAU managed 27 second-half points including six points from Burnett in the first six minutes. Unfortunately for the visitors, Humboldt State steadily increased its advantage by capitalizing on turnovers and walked away with the 90-48 victory in the end.
The Knights had three top scorers, Burnett, Olivier, and Prema, Jr., who each had nine points. Junior guard Phillip Samuel turned in seven points and two steals. Burnett pulled a team-high six rebounds and Prema, Jr. contributed five boards as well. Olivier also dealt out four assists in the contest.
“[Jonathan] rebounded a little better than he has,” Coach Sembrowich said. “He had three on each end and he tended to get after it a little bit more.”
HSU was paced by 12 points from forward Brian Morris. Guard Zac Tiedeman and forward Will Petty each posted 11 points apiece and combined to knock down six 3-pointers. The Jacks forced AAU in to 26 turnovers and out-rebounded the Urban Knights 42-32.
Academy of Art University will be back in action tomorrow night when the Knights face Chico State in a neutral site contest at HSU's East Gym on Dec. 19. Tip-off for AAU's second game of the Lawrence DeBeni Classic is scheduled for 5:30 PM.
