Cats nip Howard

Tom Tangekewicz's free throws gave Western Carolina a 69-67 victory over Howard University on Wednesday afternoon in the Triple Crown Cancun Challenge.

With one second remaining on the clock, Tankelewicz coolly sank two free throws to not only ice the game for the Catamounts, but helped the Cats shoot a season-high 80-percent from the free throw line.

These 16-of-20 shots made from the charity stripe were the difference in the game and gave the Catamounts their first Cancun Challenge victory.

Four Cats scored in double figures, Tankelewicz finished with 17 points and five assists, and junior post Tawaski King added 19 points. Trey Sumler hit 17 points with six assists and four steals, followed by Brandon Boggs with 11 points and three steals.

The Catamounts were able to convert 19 Howard turnovers into 26 points, while the Bison were able to only convert 17 points off Catamount turnovers.

Up next, Furman in Greenville, SC.

The Cats only get one shot at the Paladins this year, so this will be a big game.  This game, along with Elon at Georgia Southern, not only kick off conference play, but kicks off the battle of the north vs. the south in the SoCon.