Golden Grizzlies Triumph Over Loyola Chicago in Nail-Biter at Diamond Head Classic

HONOLULU — In a thrilling finish, Allen David Mukeba Jr. powered the Oakland Golden Grizzlies with 20 points, while Isaiah Jones netted the decisive layup with just one second remaining, leading his team to a narrow 72-71 victory over Loyola Chicago during the Diamond Head Classic on Sunday night.

With the game clock winding down, Tuburu Naivalurua received an inbounds pass from Jalen Jones about four seconds before the end. After missing a contested turnaround jumper from the baseline, Jones hustled for the offensive rebound and made a crucial putback just in time to secure the win as the buzzer sounded.

In addition to Mukeba’s contributions, who also recorded eight rebounds, teammate Malcolm Christie finished with 20 points after hitting six out of 15 attempts from three-point range. D.Q. Cole tallied 11 points, shooting 4 for 13 and making three out of nine from beyond the arc.

For the Loyola Ramblers, Miles Rubin delivered an impressive performance with 21 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks. His teammate Sheldon Edwards contributed 20 points as well, while Francis Nwaokorie added another 11 points to the score.

The Golden Grizzlies entered halftime with a 33-27 lead, influenced by Cole scoring 11 points during the first half. In the second half, Christie shone brightly, scoring 17 points to help maintain their advantage.

The defeat marked only the second loss for Loyola Chicago in their last three games after an impressive start of eight consecutive victories this season.