The Biola men’s basketball teamed opened up first round action of the 2009 NAIA National Championship Tournament against Westminster University in Kansas City, Miss.

It was a closely contested game all the way from opening tip to the final buzzer. Biola was clinging to a three-point lead of 59-56 with just under a minute to play in regulation. However, Biola’s inability to secure a defensive rebound cost them as the Griffins tapped a rebound out to Weston Anderson, who drained the shot from downtown to tie the game with nine seconds left. Biola had a final chance for the winning basket in regulation, but Nate Rakestraw’s off-balance jumper as time expired rimmed out.

In the overtime period the teams continued to trade buckets and with one minute left, the Eagles found themselves down by one. They put up some solid shots, but nothing would drop. Danny Campbell had the final shot that would not go down and Westminster snatched the rebound, went to the charity stripe and sealed the game.

Junior Rocky Hampton poured in 22 points and had 13 rebounds for the Eagles in the game. Campbell added 12 points and Rakestraw scored 10, as Biola was ousted in the first round.

Biola Head Coach Dave Holmquist was pleased with his team, despite the loss.

“I’m very proud of the way the guys played out there today,” he said. “They played their hearts out and gave a great effort. We are hoping we can build on this experience for next year.”