Nov. 30, 2002

Box Score

DENVER - Led by senior captain B.J. Pratt's (San Antonio, Texas) 23 points the University of Denver men's basketball team defeated Eastern Washington, 69-48, in their home opener in front of 1,342 fans in Hamilton Gymnasium. The victory improves Denver's record to 1-2 on the season, while EWU drops to 3-2.

The Pioneers used defense, rebounding and timely shooting to defeat the Eagles. In the first half Denver forced 14 turnovers and out rebounded Eastern Washington, 21-16. Junior center Brett Starkey (Lakewood, Colo.) continued his superb play, turning out a double double with 14 points and 12 rebounds.

"It was nice to see us playing as a team," said head coach Terry Carroll. "We were aggressive on the defensive end of the court and when you do that good things happen on the offensive end. I am proud of how hard we played tonight."

Sophomore guard Erik Benzel (Spokane, Wash.) played very well on both ends of the court, dropping in 17 points on 4-for-5 shooting from downtown to go along with three steals. Sophomore guard Rodney Billups (Denver, Colo.) helped Denver with his three steals, four points, four assist effort.

The story of the night was Pratt. The senior's 23 points came off of 8-for-17 from the floor, 4-for-10 from three-point range and 3-for-5 at the free throw line. He also added five rebounds; one steal and one assist to complete the effort.

With his 23 points the San Antonio, Texas native moves into 10th all-time in Denver scoring. He is only one point shy of the ninth spot held by Dick Brott ('54-'57).

Denver's defense (23 forced turnovers and 14 steals) and rebounding (39-31 rebounding edge) led to some offensive production with the Pioneers at a 42.1 percent mark (24-of-57).

The Pioneers are next in action this Tuesday, December 3, when they take on the Kangaroos from the University of Missouri in Kansas City in Magness Arena. Game time is set for 7 p.m.