Box Score

Phoenix, Ariz. (11/28/08) -- Sophomore point guard Weleh Dennis returned to action, but it was not enough as Academy of Art University Men's Basketball began its 11-game road trip with a loss to Pacific West opponent Grand Canyon University, 57-94. Sophomore guard Phillip Samuel was a perfect 4-for-4 from the field and led the Urban Knights with 14 points while freshman forward Hunter Hayden had his first double-double of the season with 10 points and 11 rebounds.

The Antelopes got a dunk on their very first possession and promptly opened up an early 19-7 lead on the visitors. However, Academy of Art University responded with an 11-5 run in which junior guard J.R. Cassita hit two 3-pointers and sophomore guard Dominique Smith had a pair of layups.

Four turnovers by the Knights in the final two minutes of the half resulted in a 32-23 advantage for the 'Lopes heading into the locker room for halftime.

Academy of Art University could only get as close as nine points with 17:28 to go in the second period. A 36-15 surge kept Grand Canyon comfortably in front before they finished the game with a 37-point advantage. All in all, the 'Lopes' 36 points off turnovers were the difference in the contest.

In his return, Dennis scored six points and pulled down five rebounds. Freshman forward Josiah Jungsten chipped in 10 points and six rebounds off the bench for Academy of Art University.

Engen Nurumbi's game-high 25 points led a Grand Canyon University squad that had five players score in double-figures. Three 'Lopes also had four or more steals as the Urban Knights lost the turnover battle 30-10. Shansan Chambers backed up Nurumbi with 20 points off the bench.

Academy of Art University drops to 0-5 on the season and the Antelopes move to 2-3. Next up for the Urban Knights is Fort Lewis College in their final game of the Thanksgiving Classic. Tip-off is set for 5:30 PM on Saturday evening (11/29/08).