Grand Canyon basketball delivered a pulse-pounding 66-64 win against Cal Baptist on Saturday night, fueled by JaKobe Coles' clutch 18-point performance. The WAC Conference showdown saw seven lead changes, culminating in a dramatic final possession where Cal Baptist’s Tylen Riley missed a potential game-winning jumper at the buzzer.
Coles dominated both ends of the court, adding three steals to his team-high scoring effort. Teammate Rayshon Harrison contributed 16 points, while Duke Brennan controlled the boards with 12 rebounds.
This is why we play the game – moments that test your grit,Grand Canyon’s coach said postgame.
Cal Baptist’s Kendal Coleman erupted for 24 points and seven rebounds, keeping the Lancers competitive until the final seconds. Key contributions came from Martel Williams (19 points) and Riley, who tallied nine points with six assists and two blocks.
The game’s pivotal sequence unfolded in the last minute:
- Riley’s layup cut Grand Canyon’s lead to 66-64 with 42 seconds left
- Both teams traded defensive stops
- Riley’s contested 15-footer rimmed out as time expired
With this win, Grand Canyon (20-6, 10-2 WAC) solidifies its conference title aspirations. Cal Baptist (13-13, 6-6) faces mounting pressure to secure a postseason berth. Both teams return to action Thursday, with Grand Canyon hosting UT Arlington and the Lancers visiting Seattle.