Phoenix, AZ- A day after learning of the passing of one of their assistant coaches, the emotionally driven ACU Men's Basketball upset No. 4 Vanguard 94-86 on Thursday.  

Game Info

• Game score: Arizona Christian - 94, Vanguard - 86
• Records: Arizona Christian - 18-5, 6-5 GSAC, Vanguard – 20-2, 8-2 GSAC
• NAIA Top 25 ranking: Arizona Christian - 24, Vanguard - 4
• Location: Fultz Memorial Gym, Arizona Christian University, Phoenix, AZ

ACU Stats For The Day

• Callum Lawson - 21 points, 9-10 free throw shooting
• Al Burge - 14 points, 6 rebounds, 4 blocks
• Terence Shelby, Jr. – 13 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists
• Shane Carney – 12 points, 5 assists
• Sonny Cousin - 11 points
• Emilio Acedo - 11 points

Inside the Box Score

• ACU built a 5-0 and 19-5 lead after converting six of their first seven shot attempts and first four shots at the free throw line
• The Firestorm never allowed even a tie- though VU was within two points twice in the final 4:37
• Shooting was the difference as ACU hit 56.6% from the field (including 63% in the first half) and converted 25 of 30 free throws
• ACU made nine three pointers giving them 269 on the year- breaking their 2014-15 team record of 268

Thoughts from Coach Rutter

"Tonight was really tough with the emotions from the past 24 hours.  Vanguard coaches and players shared their condolences before the game and that was touching.  Classy program, really appreciated that."

"I was so proud of the composure of our guys the past couple days.  Handled things really well and played so hard tonight.  Vanguard made a strong run and our response was impressive.  Hit some big shots and big rebounds to hold them off."

Up Next

On Saturday, the Firestorm will host San Diego Christian.  Tip-off is set for 3:00 pm.