- Grand Canyon defeats Utah Valley 89-82 in WAC Tournament final
- Six Lopes players score double figures, led by Ray Harrison's 18 points
- Third consecutive NCAA Tournament berth for Grand Canyon
- Utah Valley's 10-game win streak snapped in first championship appearance
- Tanner Toolson scores game-high 28 points in losing effort
In a high-stakes showdown at the WAC Tournament Championship, Grand Canyon University clinched their third straight NCAA Tournament berth with an electrifying 89-82 victory over top-seeded Utah Valley. The Lopes showcased exceptional teamwork, with six players reaching double-digit scores. Ray Harrison spearheaded the offense with 18 points, while Duke Brennan dominated the boards with a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double.
Utah Valley, riding a 10-game winning streak, fought valiantly in their historic championship debut. Tanner Toolson’s sharpshooting (6/9 from three-point range) kept the Wolverines competitive, but Grand Canyon’s depth proved decisive. A critical 7-1 run before halftime shifted momentum, while clutch free throws and a pivotal step-back three-pointer by Makaih Williams sealed the win late in the second half.
The victory underscores Grand Canyon’s rising prominence in collegiate basketball. Their third NCAA bid in as many years highlights sustained excellence under coach Bryce Drew. Analysts note the team’s balanced scoring—a rarity in modern basketball—as a key factor in their postseason success. This approach not only pressures defenses but fosters resilience during tight games.
Regionally, Grand Canyon’s success is galvanizing Arizona’s basketball community. Local high school recruits now view the program as a viable pathway to March Madness, creating a talent pipeline that could sustain future dominance. Meanwhile, Utah Valley’s breakthrough season—marked by 25 wins and their first regular-season title—signals growing competitiveness in the WAC.
As both teams await NCAA Tournament seeding, Grand Canyon’s depth and Utah Valley’s perimeter shooting offer intriguing storylines for March. The Lopes aim to advance past the Round of 64 for the first time, while the Wolverines seek to prove their Cinderella season was no fluke.