Air Force Academy
Western State (Colo.)
Air Force Downs Western State, 86-66
12/29/2015 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
USAF ACADEMY, Colo. - Air Force men's basketball defeated Western State, 86-66, in its final non-conference game Tuesday night in front of 2,009 fans at Clune Arena. The win puts the Falcons at 9-4 as they set to begin Mountain West play this weekend.
The Falcons took control of the game early, utilizing an 18-0 run in the first half to build a 45-27 lead at the half. Air Force led by as many as 30 points midway through the second half before Falcon head coach Dave Pilipovich began to empty out his bench.
Junior forward Hayden Graham led three Falcons in double-figures scoring with a game-high 19 points. Graham had an efficient shooting night from the field, making 6-of-9 field goals, including a perfect 5-of-5 from three point range. His five three's was a career-high.
Sophomore guard Trevor Lyons added 14 points on a perfect 4-for-4 night from the field and senior center Zach Moer chipped in with 12 points and a game-high three blocked shots. Junior guard Zach Kocur scored nine points and dished out three assists and freshman guard Pervis Louder had six points and five rebounds in 12 minutes off the bench.
The Falcons shot 54.8 percent from the field, making at least half of their shots for the fourth time this season. Air Force also made 82.1 percent of its free-throw shots, making 23-of-28. The Falcons continue to play well at home, improving to 6-1 at Clune.
Western State (2-10) reserve Pablo Barreiro came off the bench to score a team-high 12 points. Colorado Springs native Chances Matlock scored four points off the bench for the Mountaineers.
Air Force returns to action this Saturday, Jan., 2, opening conference play hosting San José State. Tip time is 12 pm.
