Firestone Fieldhouse—The annual PCH Cup match up between the Waves and Lions did not fail to disappoint Thursday night, but it was LMU coming out of Malibu with the win, 68-58. The victory marked the first win for the Lions in the Firestone Fieldhouse since 1998, breaking a streak of 13 consecutive wins for Pepperdine.
Pepperdine (7-9, 1-4) failed to convert on several key possessions down the stretch, including a season-high 15 fouls in the second-half that led to a huge disparity at the free-throw line (15-3).
The Lions (10-7, 3-1) were led by the steady hand of sophomore Anthony Ireland who scored a game-high 21 points in a full 40-minute performance, and was backed by the efficient play of senior Drew Viney with 19 points and a game high ten rebounds.
Neither team shot relatively well from the field, but it was LMU making the extra effort on the second chances, outscoring Pepperdine 20 to eight, almost the difference in the game.
The Waves were very balanced as far as scoring was concerned, led by the 14 points from both freshman Jordan Baker and senior Taylor Darby. Josh Lowery poured in 13 points and led the Waves with six assists.
The game was nearly even at half with the Waves down two, 28-26. Both squads shot below 40 percent in the first-half, and Pepperdine was marred with a 14 percent clip from the 3-point line.
The second-half was much of the same for the Waves, with the cold shooting continuing from the perimeter, finishing with a 21 percent mark. This has been the story of late for the Waves, with the last four games proving that there is a much-needed tune-up from long distance (7-54), shooting only 13 percent.
The game was broadcast live by ESPNU, and a large student turnout could be attributed to the all new “Wave Zone” created for fans to enjoy themselves before the game. Students were treated to food, games, and PCH Cup T-Shirts at the pool-side entrance.
The loss is the fourth consecutive for the Waves in WCC play, and they look to bounce back at San Francisco (11-8, 1-4) this Saturday at 1:30 p.m.