Freshman guard Keylin Vance has only started two games throughout his inaugural campaign. He averages just under eight points-per-game and sits around 13 minutes-per-game. On a night that Riverside faced off against the No. 20 Saddleback College Gauchos with potential playoff implications, it was Vance that carried the bulk of the load leading to a 65-55 victory.
Saddleback gained instant momentum as the contest started by snagging an early eight-point advantage. Riverside continued to attempt to dig themselves out of a hole and they eventually pulled to within three points of a tie at the halfway mark. Vance entered back into the contest with just over six minutes remaining and took over.
The Portland, OR native went on to close out the quarter with 11 points featuring a trio of three pointers – one coming with seven second left – leading to a 30-all score at halftime.
The second half was all Riverside. Freshman guard Amir Davis gave the Tigers the ultimate momentum by completing and and-one play that put the Tigers up by seven with just under 14 minutes remaining. However, both teams trade blows that kept Saddleback within six points of a tie, but a small run and missed opportunities by the Gauchos lead to a 65-55 win for the Tigers.
The three-point game was the difference as the Tigers carted a 46.7 shooting percentage from long range as opposed to Saddleback's 22.2 percent mark. Vance was the primary weapon from distance as seen in an efficient 6-for-8 clip from long range. It led to his career-high 29 points, which surpasses his previous career-high of 28 points.
Davis had one of his strongest games of the season as seen in a career-high 19 points. He has landed in double-digit scoring in three of the last four games.
Riverside (17-9, 12-2 OEC) will enter into its most impactful game of the season as they face off against No. 2 Santiago Canyon (24-1, 12-1 OEC) at home on Thursday, February 13 at 7 p.m. Be sure to follow live on Riverside Athletics YouTube Channel.
(Release by Nicho DellaValle, Riverside SID)