SACRAMENTO (11-30) – The Hawks continued the 40th Annual James Clark Classic as they took on Merced College. The Hawks outscored the Blue Devils by thirteen in the first half en route to a 80-62 victory.
In the first half, Khari Hutt was driven to lead this team with his mix of pull-up jumpers, attacks to the rim, and activity on the glass. Kenneth Cooley came off the bench and provided energy with five rebounds and creating shots for others off the drive. Marcus Robinson kept the Hawks moving forward with defensive tenacity, offensive execution in transition and the half-court, and dishing three assists. The Hawks led 35-22 at halftime.
In the second half, the Hawks extended their lead. Paul Ohiri had a stellar performance in the last 15 minutes to finish with 19 points, 13 rebounds, and 7-7 from the free throw line. Samuel Cota also made a large impact on the game with his basketball IQ, communication, effort, and execution. Assistant Coach Matt Bradley said about Cota, "Sam's production doesn't always show up on the stat sheet, but don't let that fool you. He can easily be a starter for our team but his spark off the bench is virtually a guarantee and valued by us all. He shows up every game." The victory advanced the Hawks into the consolation championship on Saturday afternoon.
Hutt had twenty-three points and four rebounds, Ohiri had nineteen points and thirteen rebounds and Drew Buggs had eleven points and five rebounds