JOHN LINDROOS
On Feb. 20, the Dons defeated the University of Pacific Tigers 71-58, encapsulating an undefeated season at the War Memorial at the Sobrato Center. Going 16-0 on the Hilltop, USF has defended homecourt for the first time since the 1980-81 season. The ‘81 team went on to the NCAA March Madness tournament and lost in the West first round versus the number eight seeded Kansas State University.
During the game against the Tigers, USF held Senior Night, honoring the upcoming graduates of the men’s basketball program. Those commemorated included centers Carlton Linguard Jr. and Saba Gigiberia, guards Marcus Williams, Malik Thomas and Robby Beasley, and forward Ndewedo “Chips” Newbury.
Regarding senior night, Head Coach Chris Gerlufsen in the post game conference said, “This was an emotional night for the players, for the coaches. Senior nights are kind of bittersweet for me, especially [because] I’m so connected and care so much about our players,” he said. “To think about that being the last time I get the chance to coach them here on this floor, kind of had my stomach in knots a little all day.”
Thomas reflected on his final season, saying, “It’s been a roller coaster, starting off at USC (University of Southern California) not playing and second year not playing again. Third year coming and not starting and having a role player role and then finally getting the opportunity. Just credit to my hard work, credit to my support system,” he said. “It’s been a great season. Just enjoying the journey. Enjoying the ups and the downs and the highs and the lows.”
Against the Tigers, Thomas led scorers with 23 points. Williams and freshman guard Tyrone Riley IV contributed 14 points each, while sophomore Ryan Beasley added 10.
Thomas spoke about his experience playing at the War Memorial saying, “This is our house. This is where we put up blood, sweat and tears. We’re not just gonna let anybody come in and get the dub.”
At the time of publication, the Dons sit second in the WCC standings, and play their final two games at Oregon State on Feb. 26 and against the third seeded Gonzaga University at Chase Center on March 1. The latter may ultimately decide who gets the second seed in the WCC.
“I know there’s some tickets still left for that game next Saturday. I hope we have bus loads of students going down there,” Gerlufsen said. “I would encourage everybody here in the city who has an inkling of interest in the Dons to come out and support us.”
Riley added, “With these two games, we can make or break our tournament hopes. Everybody in that locker room from the coaches, to the support staff, to the players, we all want to be an NCAA tournament team.”
Editor-in-Chief: Jordan Premmer, Chief Copy Editor: Sophia McCrackin, Managing Editor: Jordan DelFiugo, News Editor: Deeya Gupta, Sports Editor: John Lindroos
