RALEIGH, NC --The Shaw men's basketball team ended another extended losing skid against a CIAA Northern Division opponent as the Bears clawed their way to a 73-66 victory over the Virginia Union Panthers at home Saturday. The win ended a 10 game losing skid to the Panther dating back to 2018.

The Bears (7-5, 3-1) had four players score in double figures, led by Shayne Saigo, who had 19 points and nine rebounds. Denari Garrett tacked on 13 points from the bench and Corey Rutherford helped out with 12 points off the bench.

Shaw utilized great ball movement in Saturday's game, piling up 22 assists on 26 made field goals. KJ West's seven assists led the distribution list for the Bears and DJ Thomas also added five assists of his own.

The Shaw defense was a problem in Saturday's game, forcing 17 Virginia Union turnovers. Those takeaways turned into 22 points on the offensive end of the floor. West's three steals led the way individually for the Bears.

How It Happened

After falling behind 37-35, Shaw went on a 7-0 run with 2:41 left in the first half to take a 42-37 lead. The Bears then added two points to that lead by the end of the period and entered halftime with a 44-37 advantage. Shaw got a great contribution from its bench in the period, as non-starters accounted for 28 of its 44 total points.

The Bears then held on for the victory in the second half. Shaw shot well from three-point range in the half, hitting four shots from deep to score 12 of its 29 points.

Game Notes

» The Bears shot well from three point range, knocking down eight of 19 long range attempts.
» Shaw never trailed in the second half on its way to victory.
» The Bears shared the ball well, recording an assist on 85 percent of made baskets.
» Denari Garrett and Corey Rutherford came off the bench to score 13 and 12 points, respectively.
» The Shaw defense forced 17 turnovers.
» Shayne Saigo led the Bears with 19 points.
» Shaw got a game-high nine rebounds from Shayne Saigo.

Up Next

Shaw takes a quick road trip to ECSU to face the Vikings Tuesday, January 9th. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM.