SAN ANTONIO – The University of the Incarnate Word's men's basketball team wrapped up the 2021 UIW Thanksgiving Invitational, facing the University of Portland on Sunday, Nov. 28. The Cardinals dropped a 77-68 decision to the Pilots.
 
Johnny Hughes III led the Cardinal offense with 20 points and nine rebounds. Drew Lutz followed with 15 points and eight assists. Godsgift "GG" Ezedinma registered 10 points to spark the Cardinal offense in the second half.
 
Portland jumped out to a quick lead, but Brandon Swaby got the Cardinals started with a corner 3-pointer. UIW battled hard during the first half, but the Pilots took a 37-31 advantage into the locker room.
 
The Cardinals came out of the break strong, pushing a quick pace offense and scoring five-straight points. Hughes used a layup and Ezedinma drained a three to put the Cardinals within one, 37-36. Lutz then used a jumper from the top of the key to give the Cardinals a 40-39 lead.  
 
UIW kept pushing, but the Pilot offense went on a scoring run, taking a lead they would not relinquish en route to securing the win.
 
UP NEXT
The Cardinals face hometown opponent Our Lady of the Lake on Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2021. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.
 
FOLLOW ALONG
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on Twitter @UIWAtheltics, and like UIW Athletics on Facebook. 
 
Follow the team on Instagram @uiwmensbasketball and Twitter @UIWMBB