Playing in their last game as a Redhawk, Pete Trgovich and Jesse Howell ledIndiana University Northwest to an exciting117-108 victory over East West University. The game started off with both teams shooting the ball extremely wellas the lead changed hands numerous times. Jesse scored 9 of the Redhawks first 13 points. Then it was Pete's turn, as he was able to score on drives to the basket and long-range 3-pointers. But the Redwawks struggled to score the final 5 minutes of the first half as East West took control and led 56-48 at halftime. Trgovich led the team in scoring at the half with 19 points, while Howell added 17.
With the momentum switching, behind the shooting of Trgovich and Howell, the Redhawks went on their most impressive run of the season. IUN went from being down 8 points at halftime to leading by 15 points. The Redhawks biggest lead came after Pete hit back-to-back 3-pointers. Pete hit his second 3-pointer on a 30-foot pull-up off a fast break.
Every Redhawk made significant contributionsin the victory. Aaron Osorio, coming off a 20 point performance the previous game, scored 26 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. Nick Panousis also had an outstanding game with 9 points and 6 rebounds. Telly Panousisbrought energyoff the bench and contributed 3 assists, 2 rebounds, and a blocked shot. James Beard, who didn't play Thursday because of a sprained ankle, playeda goodfloor game with 6 assists and only 2 turnovers. And Walt Robinson came off the bench to knock down a big 3-pointer.
But this was Senior Night. Jesse Howell finished with 36 points and 6 rebounds, while Pete Trgovich had 41 points and 5 rebounds. Pete jokingly asked East West's Coach Lange why he was double teaming him on Senior Night. Coach Lange responded, "When my children know your name because I'm having nightmares yelling "don't leave Pete Trgovich" in my sleep, that's when I know I have to double team you".
Although record-wise the Redhawks didn't have quite the year as hoped for, they were competitive with quality teams especially late in the season. "Winning their last 2 games, was a great way for Pete and Jesse to end their careers as a Redhawk", said Coach Trgovich. "I could not be prouder of the way Pete showed leadership and the manner in which he conducted himself during his career at IUN", he stated. "Also, I wanted to thank Coach Jim Arges for his time, energy, and his knowledge". "And a special thanks to Jim Wozny (Woz), Director of Basketball Operations, for his invaluable contributions, scouting opponents and keeping game stats."