Thirteen is generally seen as an unlucky number.
For 12 attempts from deep leading up to the final shot of Cal Poly Men’s Basketball’s road contest against Seattle University, Jake Davis had not made a single one.
When Davis got the handoff going to his right he slipped, recovering with just two seconds left and launching his 13th attempt of the season.
Swish. Ballgame.
The Mustangs (2-1) snatched victory from the Redhawks (1-1), 73-71 in the Redhawk Center on Saturday.
While Luka Tarlac was still sidelined, the team was also without Peter Bandelj for their matchup in the Emerald City.
Both are key pieces to Cal Poly’s roster composition, with Bandelj being one of the primary ballhandlers and offensive hubs.
That didn’t slow the Mustangs down, who entered halftime up by one after a strong first half.
It was not one particular player who was breaking down the Redhawks, instead it was everyone pitching in a handful of points.
Seattle would rip an 11-0 run out of the halftime break, taking a double digit lead that they would hold for the majority of the half.
Will Heimbrodt was the thorn in the Mustangs’ side all night. He collected 20 points and added five blocks on the defensive side.
With five minutes left Cal Poly made their move, whittling down the Seattle lead to just one possession before Heimbrodt fouled out with two minutes left.
Seattle would be without their most impactful player on both ends of the floor during closing time, and the Mustangs smelled blood.
Down by four with 20 seconds remaining sophomore guard Kieran Elliott knocked down a three to cut the Redhawks lead to one.
At the line to extend their lead, Seattle clanked the front end of a 1-and-1. Out of timeouts the Mustangs pushed the ball upcourt, and Davis knocked home the game winner.
Hamad Mousa did not have his best game from the field, but was able to will his way to the free throw line to lead the team in scoring and rebounds with an 18 and eight night. Guzman Vasilic was the main creator off the bench, with four assists and 12 points..
Cal Poly will get a short break before continuing their six-game road trip with a trip to Fort Collins to take on the Colorado State Rams. Tipoff is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 6 p.m.
