This Saturday afternoon, the Waterloo Warriors squared off against the Guelph Gryphons, one of the provinces premier basketball programs. With the Warriors boasting a strong defensive track record this season and riding the momentum of an exciting 58-56 victory over the Windsor Lancers the previous night, the stage was set for a thrilling match up.

Both teams started with high energy, but the Gryphons quickly gained a lead, opening with a 10-0 run. The Warriors fought back by drawing fouls and capitalizing at the free throw line, converting nine of ten attempts. Despite their free throw consistency, Waterloo trailed 24-17 at the end of the opening quarter.

In the second quarter, Guelph's defensive pressure limited Waterloo's offensive chances, while the Warriors responded by ramping up their rebounding efforts. Nehita Oko-Oboh (Ottawa, ON) led the charge for Waterloo, contributing on both ends of the court with key rebounds and points. Still, the Gryphons maintained control, and the Warriors headed into halftime trailing 40-28.

Waterloo came out strong in the third quarter, relying on a team oriented approach that saw contributions from every player on the court. Their balanced play helped the Warriors outscore the Gryphons 14-13 in the quarter and stay within striking distance. The momentum shift showed they could compete with one of the league's top teams.

The Gryphons, however, regained control in the fourth quarter and pulled away to secure the win. Despite leading the match in rebounds (35-32) and shooting an impressive 87.5% from the free throw line, the Warriors fell short, with the final score reading 71-53 in favor of Guelph.

Up next, the Warriors will take on the McMaster Marauders on January 18 on the road.