Gibson Johnson scored 18 points and Brocke Stepteau added 12 points and five assists tonight to help Hawai’i hold off visiting UC Santa Barbara, 77-76, in thrilling Big West Conference men’s basketball action.
A spirited crowd of about 6,500 at the Stan Sheriff Center watched Mike Thomas and Sheriff Drammeh each add 11 points as the Warriors improved to 12-5 overall, 3-1 in the Big West. The Gauchos fell to 12-5, 1-2.
UH led, 42-33, at halftime and stretched the lead to 55-39 after an 11-3 run capped by Johnson’s layup off Stehteau’s assist with 15:45 remaining.