CLU Sports

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. – The California Lutheran University men’s basketball team won the tournament opener of its 14th annual Thrivent Financial for Lutherans (TFFL), defeating Concordia (WI) University, 61-50. The Kingsmen took the lead with 12:19 left and in the first half and held an advantage the remainder of the game.

The Falcons took the early lead after Steve Huenink scored the opening four points of his team-high 14 just under three minutes into the game.

Both teams played strong defensively in the first half holding the other to a .333 shooting percentage and combining to make just one three point attempt.

Cal Lutheran picked up the pace offensively in the second half connecting on nearly half of its shots (12-of-26) and 13-of-17 free throws. However, CLU guards Deshion Inniss and Chad Acerboni picked up technical fouls early in the second half and sending Concordia to the charity stripe early and often.

Kingsmen sophomore Lucas Gums played a career-high 31 minutes and scored 10 points, dished out six assists, grabbed four rebounds and three steals.

Andy Meier sparked the CLU offense in the second half scoring 12 of his game-high 17 points in the final 20 minutes. He grabbed 11 rebounds (seven offensive) to record his second double-double in as many contests this season.

The Falcons (4-5) were held to just 1-of-19 on three point attempts and 16-of-57 shooting for the game (.281). Concordia was able to stay close to the Kingsmen by sinking 15-of-18 second half free throws.

Cal Lutheran (6-1) will face Gettysburg (PA) College in the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans tournament finale on Sunday, December 30 at 8 pm.

Gettysburg defeated Bethany Lutheran (MN) College in overtime, 74-66 to conclude Saturday’s action.

Bethany Lutheran will face Concordia in the third place game at 6 pm.

BOX SCORE: Cal Lutheran 61, Concordia (WI) 50 F