Dawson propels CSU Northridge to 77-71 win over Hawaii

Feb 11, 2018, 07:32 am

HONOLULU -- Tavrion Dawson and Micheal Warren tossed in 22 points apiece and Cal State-Northridge shot 65 percent from the floor in a 77-71 victory over Hawaii on Saturday night.

Dawson knocked down 11 of 16 shots for the Matadors (6-19, 3-8 Big West Conference), who snapped a five-game losing streak. Warren hit 6 of 9 shots, including three 3-pointers, and all seven of his free throws. Terrell Gomez scored 16 and he and Warren combined to shoot 7 of 12 from long range.

Northridge scored the first basket of the game, but Sheriff Drammeh answered with a layup and a 3-pointer and the Rainbow Warriors stayed in front until Warren's 3-pointer pushed Northridge ahead 26-24 with 6:40 left in the half. Warren and Jalon Pipkins accounted for all nine points in a 9-2 run and the Matadors closed out the half with a 37-31 lead. Hawaii stayed within striking distance until Gomez and Warren hit back-to-back 3s to push the Matadors' lead to 65-52 with 6:10 left to play and they coasted from there.

Drew Buggs led the Rainbow Warriors (13-10, 4-6) with 17 points, while Thomas scored 14. Hawaii shot 65 percent in the first half, but just 38.5 percent after intermission.