February 23rd, 2008

When the playoff pairings matched the Keelhaulers of the California Maritime Academy with the Redhawks of Simpson University, it was inevitable that the game would come down to the wire.  Maritime swept the regular season match ups with Simpson but both games were fiercely contested with the first game decided by three points and the second a double overtime affair.  Unfortunately, the Keelhaulers were unable to duplicate their overtime magic as they fell in double overtime to Simpson by the score of 85-79 to end their season.

At the end of regulation, Maritime had a chance at the last shot but a controversial traveling call turned the ball over to Simpson and denied the Keelhalers the opportunity to win the game.  The turnover was one of thirty-three that the home team committed on the evening.

Maritime was led by an impressive offensive performance by junior Will Williams, who scored 37 points on the night.  He was joined in double figures by seniors Steve Barrera (17 points) and Simon Heller (10 points).  Barrera, Heller, and all conference post player Cody Gatton played their last game in a Keelhauler uniform.

"All of us hoped for a different result tonight.  However, the fact that we lost the game cannot take away the fact that our players gave every ounce of energy tonight.  I am very proud of our effort," commented Head Coach Bryan Rooney.

With the loss, Maritime closes the season with respectable 14-15 record.  The three seniors will be sorely missed but Coach Rooney is confident that with the players returning and a solid recruiting class the Keelhaulers can continue to make positive strides in the quest for a league championship and a berth in the National Tournament.

"We certainly have some holes to fill losing Simon, Steve, and Cody.  The good thing is we do not lose the example of their work ethic.  We had some bright spots this year including a big win over Menlo, who is representing our conference at the National Tournament, at their place.  We will continue to work and represent our school in a positive way," concluded Coach Rooney.

Go Keelhaulers!