PacWest basketball is intensifying.
The VIU Mariners men's and women's b-ball teams were tested with hard-fought games this past weekend at the Vancouver Island University gym.
The VIU men managed to stay undefeated, coming out on top against the Capilano Blues on Friday and the Douglas Royals on Saturday, while VIU's women beat the Blues but lost to the Royals.
Friday night's men's game saw the Mariners trail by as many as 15 points midway through the game before coming back to win 91-87. Bryson Cox scored 20 points, Jason Fortin had 18 points and 10 rebounds and Josh Ross also had a double-double with 16 points and 12 boards.
The next day's contest was also competitive before the M's pulled away at the end and won 86-65. Cox scored 28, John Thompson scored 25 and Ross had 18 points and 16 rebounds.
In women's action, the M's won 71-62 against Cap as Sienna Pollard scored 22 and Sara Simovic added 15.
The next day's contest ended 72-61 in favour of the visitors. Lanae Adams led VIU with 19 points and Pollard scored 14.
GAME ON … VIU's basketball teams each play just once this coming weekend, on the road Saturday (Jan. 30) against the Camosun Chargers.
sports@nanaimobulletin.com