GCU separates from Cal Poly with balanced offensive effort

Grand Canyon men’s basketball picked up its third win of the season Wednesday, a 99-71 win over Cal Poly that saw seven ‘Lopes score in double figures.

GCU (3-0) expanded on a 12-point halftime lead with a 12-1 run coming out of the break and an 11-0 run later in the second half to get its final dose of separation on Cal Poly (1-2).

It was the third straight game with at least 99 points for Bryce Drew’s squad, as it has one of the top collections of talent that can be found in the Mountain West.

Leading scorer Jaden Henley had an off night with 10 points on 11 shots, but 6-foot-8 forward Blake Barkley was there to provide relief with a team-high 16 points on 10 shots. Barkley is now 4 of 6 from long range this season.

The ‘Lopes got out in transition with 11 steals to the Mustangs’ two, and they held Cal Poly to five made 3s on 25 tries. GCU made twice as many 3s (10 of 33).

GCU next hosts Louisiana Monroe on Saturday, one night after the Warhawks play Arizona State in Tempe. GCU’s first real test will come 10 days after that, a matchup with Josh Schertz’s Saint Louis Bilikens.

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