The men's basketball team had a strong performance at the GW Mechanical Tipoff Classic in Casper, as they won two games on the road.  Six Rustlers had a double figure scoring night, defeating USU-Eastern, 90-65.  Leading scorers for the Rustlers were Marquis White and Baris Ulker with 15 points each, followed by Irshaad Hunte (14), Broc Finstuen (13), Henry Tanksley (12) and Devon Colley (10).  Hunte also went 8 for 9 from the charity stripe and added 9 rebounds while Ulker pulled down 8 boards.

"Obviously great to get the season started with a win, but more than just the final score, I was really happy with how we played.  I thought we came out focused from the beginning and played with the energy and effort needed to win college basketball games.  We also did a great job of playing together and keeping everyone involved.  I love when I can look at the stat sheet after the game and we have 6 guys in double figures.  That kind of balance will make us that much more difficult to prepare for and could really work to our advantage," said Coach Jack Nelson.

Coach Nelson's game plan involved a balanced attack that saw all twelve men on the roster get valuable playing time, as the Rustlers defeated Impact Academy, 112-78.  Leading scorers for the game were Broc Finstuen with 13, Marquis White (12), Irshaad Hunte (12), Romario Spence (12), Devon Colley (11), John Villanueva (11), and Henry Tanksley and Drew Switzer with 9 each.  While both teams were close to equal in the turnover and free throw attempts, the Rustlers dominated the boards 54-35; Spence with 9 rebounds and Hunte with 8.

"Another good team win for us with another very balanced day of scoring.  I am really happy with how we came out to start the game.  Like the first game we brought a high level of intensity and focus.  That allowed us to open a very sizable lead, which in turn allows me to get a lot of minutes and valuable game experience for some guys that otherwise might not get a lot of minutes yet.  When the time comes for them to play in a closer game, they will be able to go back to this experience."  -Coach Jack Nelson