LCU Wins Duncan/Chaps Home Debut

LUBBOCK, Texas (November 5, 2011) - Lubbock Christian University first-year head coach Todd Duncan received his first taste of victory Saturday night, as Anthony Brancato recorded his second consecutive double-double to lift LCU to an 80-68 victory in their home opener, which began with a banner raising complimenting the efforts of former head coach John Copeland and his 31 years coaching the Chaparrals.

The Chaps received a balance attack with four players in double figures and a pair of double-doubles.  Brancato, who had career highs in the season opener with a double-double, produced a new career high with 19 points and also matched his career-high rebound total from Monday with 10 rebounds.  Point guard Rashad Sample matched a career-high and program record (for a third time) with 12 assists, and completed the double-double with 14 points.  Douglas Williams (18) and Ricky Roberts (12) also produced double figures in points for LCU.

The Falcons jumped out to an early 8-2 lead, but the Chaps responded with an 11-2 run and took a 13-10 lead.  The Chaps extended the lead to 38-29 at the half and led as much as 59-37 with 11:15 remaining in the second half.  LCU shot 61.5% (16/26) from the field in the first half and 56.4% (31/55) in the game, while holding UTPB to 38.5% (25/65) in the game.  Elijah Jordan led UTPB in the loss with 12 points.

LCU evened their record to 1-1 on the season and they will host Texas College Saturday to complete their home-and-home season series.  The game served as an exhibition game for NCAA Div. II UTPB.