Coming off of a tough matchup last week against Sierra College, the DVC men’s basketball team won 64-45 at home against American River College to end their eighth game on the year.

The Vikings held the Beavers to only nine points scored within the first 15 minutes of the game. Aggressive defensive play caused forced shots – leaving the Beavers with a low shot percentage shooting from the field. The effort was echoed on offense as well, with shots being sunk from the three point range. Shooting guard, Connor Jean led the Vikings in scoring at the end of the first half, with two three-point buckets right before halftime. There seemed to be no answer from the Beavers to stop the talented guard.

Athletic director, Christine Worsley commented, “Every conference game is competitive.” She credited the men’s basketball team for playing hard and finishing strong acknowledging the team for playing hard from beginning to finish.

“We play in the Big 8 Conference – the most competitive conference in (Northern California),” Worsley said.

The Big 8 Conference is composed of eight schools – American River College, Sierra College, Sacramento City College, Modesto Junior College, Consumnes River College, San Joaquin Delta College, Santa Rosa College, and Diablo Valley College – all of which have competitive athletic programs.

Head coach Steve Coccimiglio seemed confident after the conference win.

“[They did a] good job defending the dribble penetration,” Coccimiglio said. “Unselfish passes [were] made.”

The Beavers had many turnovers which resulted in the Vikings’ offensive fast break baskets. DVC had only nine turnovers compared to the Beavers 12 during the entirety of the game.

Nearing the end of regulation, the Vikings maintained a huge lead and capped it at a score of 64-45. DVC played the second half a little more conservative and less aggressive by controlling the clock despite A.R.C.’s efforts.

Jean, one of the stars of the night, talked about overcoming injuries and functioning as a team after the win.

“We played solid defense and played as a unit resulting in offensive baskets,” Jean said.“Solid teams win offensively and defensively.”

DVC’s next game will be away, against Sacramento City College on Jan. 21.