The Benedictine Mesa Redhawks made history by defeating Hope International 86-75 in the NAIA Tournament Quarterfinals, marking their first-ever semifinal appearance. After losing both previous matchups against the Royals, the Redhawks showcased resilience and strategic prowess, particularly in the second half. Isaiah Howard's scoring and rebounding, along with Khari Dunn's offensive presence, were pivotal in overcoming an eight-point deficit. The team displayed a balanced attack and responded effectively to pressures, securing a decisive victory that highlights their growth and determination as they advance deeper into the tournament.

By the Numbers
  • Benedictine outscored Hope 51-40 in the second half.
  • Isaiah Howard totaled 20 points and 10 rebounds, leading the team in both categories.
State of Play
  • Benedictine Mesa has now reached the NAIA Tournament Fab Four for the first time in its history.
  • The Redhawks are on a winning streak, having gained momentum at the perfect time in the tournament.
What's Next

As they head to the semifinals, the Redhawks will look to build on this momentum and capitalize on their newfound confidence. The upcoming game will test their ability to maintain their performance against stronger competition in the tournament.

Bottom Line

The Redhawks' victory not only serves as a redemption for past losses to Hope but also solidifies their status as a formidable contender in the NAIA tournament. Their ability to adapt, stay composed under pressure, and perform collaboratively has set the stage for what could be a historic run.