Grand Canyon University Stuns Utah 68-58, Advances to Acrisure Classic Final

Grand Canyon University defeated Utah in a commanding 68-58 victory last night. The win sends the Lopes to the Acrisure Classic championship game tonight. They will face the undefeated Iowa Hawkeyes for the title.

This semifinal matchup was a showcase of defensive grit. GCU won despite a complete absence of three-pointers, a first in their Division I history.

Historic Win Without a Three-Pointer

Grand Canyon achieved a rare feat in modern basketball. They became the first team this season to win a game without making a single three-point shot. The Lopes went 0-for-10 from beyond the arc.

They compensated with relentless drives to the basket and stifling defense. According to ESPN’s game statistics, GCU scored 62 of their 68 points either in the paint or from the free-throw line.

The team’s ball security was exceptional. They committed only six turnovers, compared to Utah’s 14. This gave them a significant possession advantage throughout the contest.

Henley’s Bench Spark and Defensive Lockdown

Jaden Henley provided a massive offensive spark off the bench. The senior guard led all scorers with 18 points, attacking the rim with purpose.

Henley was efficient, drawing fouls and converting 8 of his 9 free throw attempts. His early energy, including two quick steals and dunks, set the game’s physical tone.

Defensively, the Lopes were superb. Brian Moore Jr. held Utah’s star guard, Terrence Brown, to just 9 points. This broke Brown’s 37-game streak of scoring in double figures.

Utah’s Offense Stalls Against GCU Pressure

Utah’s high-powered offense was held 28 points below its season average. The Runnin’ Utes struggled to find any consistent rhythm against GCU’s disciplined scheme.

Their 14 turnovers proved costly. Grand Canyon converted those mistakes into 17 points, a key difference in the final score.

Despite shooting a slightly better percentage from the field, Utah could not overcome its ball-handling errors. The Utes will now play in the tournament’s third-place game.

Championship Showdown Against Undefeated Iowa

The victory sets up a dramatic final against the Iowa Hawkeyes. Iowa brings a perfect 6-0 record into the championship matchup.

The Hawkeyes are a potent offensive team. They lead the nation in field goal percentage, shooting 57.6% from the floor.

Iowa senior guard Bennett Stirtz is a major threat. He scored 29 points in their semifinal win, making six three-pointers. Containing him will be GCU’s primary defensive challenge.

Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. EST on CBS Sports Network. The Lopes will look to capture a signature non-conference tournament victory.

Grand Canyon University now has a golden opportunity to claim an early-season tournament championship against a top-tier opponent.

Thought you’d like to know

What was the final score between GCU and Utah?

Grand Canyon University defeated Utah with a final score of 68-58. The Lopes led for the vast majority of the game, controlling the tempo and pace from the start.

Who was the leading scorer for GCU?

Jaden Henley was the leading scorer with 18 points. He came off the bench and provided a crucial offensive spark for the team.

How many three-pointers did GCU make?

Grand Canyon did not make a single three-pointer, going 0-for-10 from long range. This makes their victory even more remarkable in today’s game.

Who does GCU play in the championship?

The Lopes will face the undefeated Iowa Hawkeyes for the Acrisure Classic title. Iowa is 6-0 and boasts one of the nation’s most efficient offenses.

What channel is the championship game on?

The championship game will be televised nationally on CBS Sports Network. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.