Tonight, the Waterloo Warriors faced off against the Brock Badgers at Bob Davis Gymnasium in St. Catharines for an action packed OUA match up. With both teams carrying similar records this season, the game was set to be an intense battle with implications for the standings. Despite a valiant effort, the Warriors ultimately fell short, with the Badgers securing a 78-66 victory.

The game opened with high intensity, as both teams looked to set the pace early. Waterloo's Rafael Llorin (Cambridge) brought energy from the tip off, scoring early to keep the Warriors close. Elijah Idehen (Milton) brought offensive rebounding prowess to control the flow of the game. As well, Mac Steenburgh (Vancouver) sank a deep three pointer which would help the Warriors gain momentum. Isaiah McRae (Burlington) followed with back to back baskets, closing the score gap to 17-15. With both teams rotating players frequently to maintain the fast pace, the quarter ended in a 20-20 tie.

The Warriors maintained their momentum as Ross Pockar (Calgary) relentlessly showed two way energy that helped keep Brock's offense at bay. Cristian Craciun (Ancaster) sank a big three pointer early in the quarter which boosted the Warriors' spirit. McRae's defensive back check and clutch three pointer with just four seconds on the shot clock in the final minute secured Waterloo a 45-33 trailing position at halftime.

After halftime, Brock's three point shooting took off, extending their lead and applying a full court press that pressured the Warriors' ball handlers. Llorin answered with several defensive steals, helping the Warriors hold onto possessions. Despite gaining control of most possessions mid quarter, the Warriors struggled to convert, and Brock led 68-51 heading into the fourth.

Waterloo made a determined push in the final quarter. Kiran Chadwick-Rupp (Victoria) and Pockar's consistent shooting chipped away at the deficit, bringing the Warriors back within 14 points with seven minutes remaining. As the game neared its conclusion, Waterloo's defense and hustle brought them within striking distance in the final minute. However, Brock's sharpshooting from beyond the arc continued, sealing the game with a final three pointer and a score of 78-66.

The Warriors return home to take on the Queen's Gaels on Friday at 6:00 p.m., where they'll look to bounce back and continue climbing the OUA standings.