IRVINE, Calif. – The CUI men's basketball team battled with Academy of Art on Thursday night, ultimately falling late in the game and evening out their record to 5-5 on the season and 2-2 in PacWest play.
 
Heading into Thursday's game, junior Wayne Arnold ranked second in all of NCAA DII in total points (233) and points per game (25.9) on the season. He continued his dominance against the Urban Knights, scoring 24 points, recording seven rebounds, two steals, three assists, and a season-high four blocks. With his 24-point performance, Arnold surpasses Tray Buchanan of Emporia State, once again moving into first in the nation in scoring. The Cal State Fullerton transfer has scored at least 22 points in all but one game this season.
 
Rodrick McCobb and Joshua Caston also played a big role in the Eagles' offense, scoring 15 and 13 points respectively. The duo also combined for nine rebounds and five assists in the game.
 
The Eagles shot a collective 79 percent (19-24) from the free throw line, with Arnold and McCobb each making seven. Freshman Cristian Butler also turned in a solid performance, making 3 of 4 from the field, recording two rebounds, three assists and a steal.
 
Despite strong individual performances, the Green & Gold struggled to close the gap with Art U late in the game.
 

 "ART U was really ready to compete and played outstanding," said CUI head coach Ken Ammann. "They beat us in every way.  I was disappointed we didn't respond better and could never really turn the momentum - especially on the defensive end.  We have to be better than that going forward through the tough stretches of PacWest play."

 
With Saturday's game against Antelope Valley being canceled due to a scheduling conflict, the Eagles return to action with a PacWest matchup against Dominican on December 20th at CU Arena.
 
CLICK HERE for the full CUI men's basketball schedule