Senior duo helps Chapman avenge prior loss

   The men's basketball team got a fast start to spark a decisive 77-57 victory over West Coast Baptist College Tuesday night in the Hutton Sports Center. It was the Panthers' first home game since Dec. 31 and marked the fourth consecutive home victory.

   Chapman was led by a duo of seniors who earned career highs in points. Senior forward Ben Ricard had a game-high 23 points while senior guard Brandon Lin followed with 22 points. Ricard also finished with 11 rebounds, two assists and a steal to cap off his career night. Lin has scored 20 or more points for two consecutive games.

   This was the second time Chapman (13-6) faced the Eagles this season, with West Coast Baptist (12-13) narrowly reaching a 66-64 victory three weeks ago.

   "This is a team that we lost to earlier in the season because of being too passive," said Assistant Coach Zach Wheatley. "We are trying to make more plays and hopefully that will spur the offense."

   Chapman will have another opportunity to seek retribution over the weekend. The Panthers, who are1-1 against UC Santa Cruz, are looking to nab the rubber match against the Slugs 7 p.m. Saturday night in the Hutton Sports Center.

   "We have always had a rivalry with them and are looking for a little revenge," Wheatley said.