The Chaminade men’s basketball team defeated Academy of Art Saturday on senior night at the McCabe Gym. The Swords finished the season off with a three-game winning streak at home.
Seniors Lee Bailey, AJ Mathew, and Frankie Eteuati were sent out on a 90-78 win over the Urban Knights for their last collegiate game. The seniors will end their collegiate careers with an 12-14 overall record, and a 9-11 conference record for the 2014-15 record.
“We had some up and downs with the three seniors, but they are forever champions last season. I wish things could have gone differently this season, but that’s life. I’ll miss the three seniors and wish them the best of luck.” said Chaminade men’s basketball head coach Eric Bovaird.
Bailey had a standout finish ending the game with a season-high 27 points, while sinking five 3-pointers and three steals. He also was named PacWest Player of the Week, which is an excellent finish to his four-year career as a Silversword.
“I just wanted to finish my career off strong and with a win,” Bailey said. “I came out aggressive and saw a couple shots go through and just kept riding the wave from there.”
Bailey will be remembered in Chaminade men’s basketball program history for points, steals, and assists. Although his leadership doesn’t show up as a stat, it will be missed next season. He poured in 1,426 points making him the sixth all time in scoring, fifth in steals with 135, and seventh in assists with 393.
Eteuati ended his career with 80 blocked shots, but was didn’t play in the last game against the Urban Knights. 80 block puts Eteuati seventh in Chaminade men’s basketball program history.
Mathew pulled down a career-high nine rebounds and had his second start of the season 2014-15 season.
“Words can’t really explain all the different emotions, but it was good to end the career on a win with my brothers. Ultimately it was a good time, especially with the support we got from family, friends, and faculty,” said Mathew
With the season coming to an end on a winning note, Bovaird’s expectations for next season begin. Last season, the Silverswords won the PacWest conference, with an overall record of 19-13 and a conference record of 13-7. The Swords are motivated to get back to the PacWest tournament next season, especially with not making an appearance this season. The Swords plan to return most of the players.
“Felt great to go out on a winning streak. Hopefully, sets the tone for the next season,” said Bovaird.