It was a tough game for the Cougars as they started off so strong, but ended so defeated.  In the first ten minutes of the game, CCU fought hard and it showed.  CCU's #14 Stefan Hackethal scored 10 points in the first half, changing the game completely.  Hackethal's shots were dropping which kept the Cougs close to CSUP and found them tied at 21-21 at ten minutes.  The Cougs worked as a team and took the lead at 23-21.  They held the lead until six minutes were left in the half.  All of a sudden Pueblo went on a scoring surge banking two three points and a dunk.  For some reason CCU could not recover and the Thunderwolves gained a 16-point lead going into the locker room 46-30.
 
The second half grew to a 20-point gap between the two squads.  CCU was on the court working hard, but nothing was falling.  The game ended 100-78 Pueblo.  Leading for the Cougs was junior #13 Jeremiah Hanson who totaled 22 points.  Stefan Hackethal had 14 points and both Marcus Fager and Justin Engesser grabbed seven rebounds.  CCU ended the game shooting 46% from the field, 25% from three, and 71% from the line.
 
The highlight of the night was when the Cougars two seniors were honored before the game: Josiah Dunn and Isaiah Hanson
 
Josiah Dunn:

Josiah comes to CCU after earning his undergraduate degree from Denver University where he was also a member of the Men's Basketball team for 4 years.  He currently has a 4.0 GPA and will get his Master's from CCU in Business and Administration with an emphasis in Leadership.  After school his plans are to trust in the Lord with all his heart and lean not on his own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). He wants to go wherever God leads him.
 
Coach Hironaka wants Josiah to know that even though he has only been at CCU a short time and struggled with injuries, he has been an important part of the team by doing whatever he can to serve others. We appreciate his contribution to the team. The entire coaching staff at CCU appreciates the experience Josiah brought this season and his conscientious approach on and off the court throughout the year. There is no doubt in their minds Josiah will be successful in whatever he chooses to do.
 
Isaiah Hanson:
 
Isaiah has been a key member of CCU Men's Basketball for 5 years. While serving as Team Captain and Chaplain this year, he also found time to maintain a 3.6 GPA while working towards his degree in Business Administration. He has been recognized on several occasions for his excellence in academics, including being named RMAC 1st Team All-Academic this 2017-2018 season.
 
Isaiah has also excelled on the court this season. After starting every game this year he is averaging 16 points per game, 3.6 rebounds per game and shooting 44% from the 3 point line. All are career highs. He was named RMAC Player of the Week in February and has been chosen the MVP of CCU Men's Basketball this season. Isaiah has been a part of more wins than any other Coug in Men's Basketball history.
 
After he graduates in May, Isaiah plans on starting a career in the construction industry and getting married. Isaiah is proud of his time at CCU and finishing his 5th year.
 
Coach Hironaka wants Isaiah to know he has been a joy to have in the program. He has been the consummate leader, player and role model for CCU Basketball. His commitment to his faith has also inspired his fellow teammates. I am grateful to have gotten the chance to coach this fine young man.
Isaiah, the entire coaching staff is proud of your commitment to CCU over the past 5 years, honored to have coached you, and excited to see where the next chapter in life takes you.
 
The Cougars will play their final two games next weekend Feb. 23^rd and 24^th at Metro State and UCCS.