Hawks Respond with 96-85 Victory over Santa Monica College

The Hawks were looking for a solid effort and a bounce back win today after suffering a setback in yesterday's game.  SCC responded and came away with a 96-85 victory over Santa Monica College.  The Hawks played better overall and were more efficient on the offensive end of the court. SCC's tempo and depth provided the spark and allowed the team to play their uptempo style of play.

In the first half, the Hawks jumped out quick and took a 6-0 lead thanks in part to Kai Smith's two 3-point baskets.  Smith connected on 4 for 5 from three in the half and led the team with 12 points. His aggressiveness on the offensive and defensive side of the ball were key to the team's success. Harrison Wiese also provided a spark and contributed 8 points and 3 rebounds in the half. SCC had 8 players score in the half and had their largest lead of 9 at the 14:52 lead. Santa Monica responded and took the lead with 6:17 left in the first half, but SCC finished strong and was up 44-40 at intermission. 

The second half was all Santiago Canyon as they instilled their will to win by playing with pace and attacking the basket. SCC's 96 points were the second most of the season and their bench contributed 39 of those points. Leading the way in scoring was Aaron Wadman with 24, Smith with 19, Wiese with 16, and Adam Holod with 15 points, including 5 for 8 from three. The Hawks as a team finished the game shooting 10 for 29 from the 3-point line. Smith and Wadman both finished with 9 rebounds to pace the Hawks as well. The duo combined for 43 points, 18 rebounds, and 4 assists. SCC had their largest lead of 15 in the half with 3:48 remaining. 

Santiago Canyon's record is now 6-3 on the season with two more non-conference games next week before conference play starts the week after. The Hawks will host LA Harbor College on Wednesday, December 7 with a start time of 6pm and then will travel to San Diego to play at Palomar College on Friday, December 9.  Tip-off for that game will be at 5:00pm.  SCC is currently ranked #12 in the state according to the Massey Ratings.