Vallejo, CA - The Hawks took on the most improved Keelhaulers of Cal Maritime tonight. In the history of the California Pacific Conference the Keelhaulers have never defeated Hawks, but this is no typical Keelhaulers team. The Keelhaulers were able to hit big shots all night and in overtime, they were able to defeat the Hawks for the first time 78-80.
The first half found the Keelhaulers setting the tempo of the game. They hit from all cylinders and were able to go into half time up 12 (27-39). The Hawks shot 28% from the field and were 0-6 from the arch. The Keelhaulers on the other hand were 39% from the field 41% from the arch on 7-17 shooting.
The second half found the Hawks relentless on the defensive end and slowly cutting into the Keelhaulers lead. The last 5 minutes of regulations found both teams fighting tooth and nail to get scores, but it was the Keelhaulers who would get the last chance to win the game. With seconds left on the clock the Keelhaulers would drive to the basket and attempt a last shoot to win the game. The Hawks would hold and the game would go into overtime at 69 all.
In overtime both teams would find themselves exchanging baskets the whole way, but it was the Keelhaulers' Taylor Himmelspach who would score the last score of the game.
Leading the Keelhaulers tonight was Taylor Himmelspach with a game high 22 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assist, and 2 steals.
For the Hawks it was Whitne' Blackburn with a double-double 17points and 10 rebounds. Also chipping in was Suman Bains, Jamie-Leigh Ronolo, and Lesley Vodiscka who on the night scores 16, 13, and 11 points respectively.
With the loss the Hawks drop to third place in Cal Pac Standing.
Next for the Hawks is Simpson University on Saturday, January 16, 2009 at 2pm.