The University of Toronto Varsity Blues men’s basketball team defeated the visiting McMaster Marauders 83-69 in a solid team effort on Friday, November 7 at the Athletic Centre Sports Gym.

The Blues jumped out of the gates quickly in this contest, shooting 58% in the first quarter and holding a nine-point lead after the one quarter.

Fifth-year forward Marko Gacic’s (Hamilton, Ont.) nine points in the second quarter bolstered the Marauders offence and helped his team cut into the early deficit, tying the game 38-38 at the end of the first half.

Toronto put on the pressure in the second half with every player on the floor contributing. Solid defensive play, combined with a spectacular offensive output allowed the Blues to gradually pull away from the Marauders and secure the 83-69 victory.

Five Varsity Blues hit double digits with Burlington, Ont. native Nick Magalas leading all players with 18 points. Fourth-year veterans Ahmed Nazmi (Cairo, EGY) and Nick Snow (London, Ont.) tallied 16 and 15 points, respectively. Rob Paris (St. Catharines, Ont.) scored 13 points while first-year transfer student and Blues player of the game Patrick Sewell (London, Ont.) added 10 points, three blocks and three steals in the win.

Gacic led the Marauders with 15 points on the night and teammate Aminu Bello (Hamilton, Ont.) added 13.

The Varsity Blues return to action tomorrow night when they host the Lakehead Thunderwolves at the Athletic Centre Sports Gym. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m.