The University of Toronto Varsity Blues men's basketball team hosted the York Lions at Goldring Centre on Saturday (Jan. 11) night to finish up a two-game home stretch, coming up just short with a final score of 82-77 in favour of the visitors.
 
The Blues came out blazing in the first quarter, outscoring the Lions 29-19, yet the Lions fought back with efficient scoring, shooting 50 percent from the field. U of T out-rebounded York 56-41, with 26 offensive rebounds compared to the Lions nine. The second-chance opportunities allowed the Blues to slowly close down on the York lead, tying the game 71-71 with 2:53 left in the fourth quarter. However, missed free-throws and efficient shooting by the visitors allowed them to pull away down the stretch.
 
The Blues had three athletes in double figures, led by fourth-year wing Quarry Whyne who notched an 18 point 11 rebound double-double alongside three steals. Fourth-year point guard Inaki Alvarez also scored 18 points, adding three rebounds and two assists, while second-year forward Simeon Jeffers put up a 17 point and 10 rebound double-double.
 
The Lions were led by Travon Hamilton who notched a game-high 21 points, seven assists, and four rebounds, supported by Liam Rietschin with 18 points, six rebounds, and three blocks.
 
Up next, the Blues take on the Brock Badgers in St. Catharines on Sunday, Jan. 18 with tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m.. The game can be streamed via oua.tv.