Huntington Beach, Calif. - Golden West men's basketball (2-26, 1-15 OEC) honored six Rustlers on Sophomore Night against the Riverside Tigers (10-18, 7-9 OEC), 90-97.

Festivities began the night at the Golden West Gym as Rustlers Men's basketball was recognizing their six sophomores who will be continuing on their academic and athletic career after the semester elsewhere. DJ Williams, Darrian Hammons, Noel Camejo, Soma Doherty, Trevor Vertiz and Yvan Long were all recognized for their time at Golden West. Friends and family of the graduating student-athletes filled the bleachers to cheer on their Rustlers in the final game of the season. 

It was an exciting start for both sides as the game was competitive from the start. However, from steals, rebounds and breakaways, Golden West found themselves up double-digits midway through the first half. At the tenth minute, DJ Williams nailed a three to put his team up by twelve, 29-17. Riverside made up ground as they scored ten unanswered points to come within two points. The Tigers took a lead with three minutes left in the half but the Rustlers responded to regain the edge. At the end of the first half, Riverside was up by one point, 40-41. 

To start the second half, the Rustlers would take control with a five point lead after a DJ Williams layup. The Tigers would again retake the edge but not Tre Richard would knott it back up with a tip-in, 66-66. In the final ten minutes, Riverside would separate with a large double-digit lead. Though Golden West fought, they dropped their final game of the season, 90-97. 

Noel Camejo led his team in points and earned a double-double with 29 points and 10 rebounds. Second in scoring was DJ Williams with 22 points with four rebounds and five assists. Soma Doherty nearly earned a double-double with his eight rebounds and 18 points. The Rustlers closed out their 2023-24 season with a record of 2-26 and 1-15 in conference play.

NEXT UP: Golden West Men's basketball has concluded their 2023-24 season.