IRVINE, Calif. - For the first time ever in PacWest history, the Golden Eagles win the "Defender of the Week Award" after going 2-0 and holding their opponents to 57 points per game over the last two games.

After defeating two CCAA teams this past week/ weekend, the Golden Eagles credit their success to the defensive side. Holding their opponents to under 60 points, stealing passes, diving on loose balls, taking charges, and out-rebounding other teams by 10+ rebounds is what CUI defense and basketball are about.

During their competition against Cal State East Bay Pioneers, they got up big in the first ten minutes of the game and never looked back since. The Golden Eagles forced over 22 turnovers, creating offense on the defensive side that helped them gain a 42-19 advantage at the half.

As the final buzzer sounded, the Golden Eagles finished the game, winning by 19 points with a score of 74-55.

Stats Team leaders included a new career high and game-high wearing green and gold Joseph Locandro, who scored 23 points on an efficient 9-13 from the field and grabbed four rebounds in only 20 minutes of gameplay for the big. Other CUI contributors include Jayce Catchings, who scored 17 points, snagged five rebounds (two of them offensive) and made one steal; Jaden Henderson scored 13 points, grabbed five boards, and made one steal.

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