Duhawks drop opener, AWC officially open
Jon Denham, Sports Information Director
November 16th, 2007

Loras 71
Clarke 84

The Loras College men's basketball team lost the 2007-2008 season opener on Friday 84-71 to Clarke College. The game was the first to be played at Loras' new Athletics & Wellness Center and also the first under rookie head coach Greg Gorton, who has been an assistant with the team for the past four seasons.

In front of a packed house of purple and gold, the Duhawks fell victim to a hot-shooting Clarke College team who spoiled the emotional and much anticipated opening of the newest facility on campus. The Crusaders shot 66% for the game from the field and an impressive 11-15 from three point distance. One third of the total shots hoisted by Clarke were from long distance. The Crusaders had been shooting under 20% in their first three games from three point territory. Demarvis Russell and DeMonte Bynum combined to go 8-12 from behind the arc.

For Loras, 2006-2007 IIAC MVP Kyle White was plagued by foul trouble and limited to just eight points in 25 minutes. He did score the first basket in the new building, however, a three pointer just seconds into the game. Brian Centella dropped in 20 points for the Duhawks who shot 45.6% for the night from the field and 55% (11-20) from the free throw line. Luke Slater made three of his five shots from three point land, and finished with 15 points. Ricky Kolze added 16. Jake Oeth led the way on the glass with nine rebounds.

Loras will return to action in the AWC on Tuesday night against Wheaton College. Tipoff is again set for 7:30 PM.  

Clarke College head coach earned his 500th career victory with the win.