Fifth-year senior Rob Paris broke out of his shooting slump in a big way, knocking down a career high 46 points to lead the University of Toronto Varsity Blues in a critical 87-84 win over the York Lions at the Tait McKenzie Centre on Saturday, Jan. 23. 

The St. Catharines native shot 58 percent from the floor, including 7-of-12 from beyond the arc and hit 11-of-14 free throws, playing all 40 minutes of this contest. 

With this offensive outburst, Paris eclipses the 1000th career-point plateau as a member of the Varsity Blues. He joins teammate Nick Magalas (Burlington, Ont.) who topped this milestone on January 16th versus the Carleton Ravens. 

As a team, Toronto shot 44% from the field, 41% from three-point land and out-rebounded their cross-town rivals 52-29. Third-year forward Andrew Wasik of Burnaby, B.C. was a monster on the glass, collecting 15 rebounds to lead all players. 

In a back and forth match, the Blues won the decisive third period and outscored the Lions 27-20 to take a 67-62 lead heading into the final frame. York fought to the end and held a 22-20 advantage in the last 10 minutes, however, Toronto was able to hold on for the three-point victory. 

The Blues (7-7) leading scorer Magalas added 16 points in the win and dished out six assists. Wasik tallied six points to go with his 15 rebounds, while Drazen Glisic (Sarajevo, BIH) grabbed five boards to go along with eight points. 

The Lions (2-12) were lead by Ostap Choliy’s team-high 30 points, while Dejan Kravic added 23 and pulled in five rebounds in the loss. 

Toronto is back on the floor next Friday when they head to Ottawa to take on the No. 2 Carleton Ravens on their home court. Tip off is scheduled for 8 p.m. 

For more information, scores and highlights on your favourite Toronto teams, please visit the home of the Varsity Blues at http://www.varsityblues.ca.