The Tiger coaching staff waits for the game to start.

In Hilo, Hawaii, the Tigers took on the Vulcans of Hilo University and lost a 78-71 decision to the NCAA II team.  The first half saw the lead go back and forth with HU hitting a shot at the buzzer to go up by three.  The Tigers looked to get it going early in the second half but came out flat and gave up a 12-0 run to start the half.  Coach Bailey called a quick time out after the first six points but the Tigers didn’t respond and another timeout two minutes later found GBC down by seventeen.  Grace would begin pulling closer throughout the rest of the half, closing the gap to five, but could get no closer.

“We just didn’t play defense well tonight,” said Bailey.  “I was a little concerned about our technique’s and our communication on defense.  It’s tough to travel so much and play so many games without practice but we do this every year.  It usually takes it’s toll at some point but we feel confident that now the schedule will slow down, we can fix some things and get ready for the second half of the season and tournament.  We have played some very good teams lately and I am sure we are better for it, but none of us like losing and it will keep us working.”

Allen Durham led GBC with 21 points and 8 rebounds.  Dan Dame chipped in 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists.  Ryan Dame continued to show improved play with 9 first half points.  Bryce Stanhope and Matt Kurtz helped lead a valiant comeback in the second half with 6 points each and some great defensive play.

The Tigers will get back to work after Christmas and play in the Hope College Tournament on the 29th and 30th.