The Biola men's basketball team played William Jessup University at home on Jan. 29 for the first home game of the spring semester. When these teams played on Dec. 6, William Jessup won 75-56. The determined Eagles reversed the results to win 78-60 in their second meeting.

The Eagles were led in the first half by sophomore guard Dakari Archer who had an efficient 12 points from a total of seven shot attempts. Senior guard Pierre Zook also contributed with nine points from behind the arch. Biola ended the half up 33-25.

“I think we cared more,” said Archer. “We played harder defense, we were in the gaps and we ran out to their shooters well.”

Biola continued to outplay William Jessup in the second half, outscoring them 45-35. Senior forward Mike Kurtz led the team with 12 points and nine rebounds in the second, followed by Archer with nine points. The Eagles defeated the Warriors with a final score of 78-60.

“Our effort was a lot better,” said Zook. “Our defense was a lot better and we definitely moved the ball a lot better on offense, so it was a good win.”

Archer finished the night with 21 points and three assists for the Eagles. Zook earned 17 points, six rebounds and two assists while Kurtz scored 12 points, grabbed 13 rebounds and defended the rim with five blocks.

Biola is now tied with William Jessup for sixth place in the Golden State Athletic Conference and will continue with conference play as they travel to Arizona Christian University on Feb. 3. The Firestorms beat the Eagles 88-73 earlier this season.