GREEN BAY, Wis. — The Oakland Golden Grizzlies (11-9, 7-2 HL) secured an 88-63 victory over Green Bay (11-9, 6-3 HL) inside the Kress Center on Sunday in a battle for second-place standings in the league. Oakland dominated in the paint, scoring 50 points and outrebounding the Phoenix 42-24. The Phoenix managed to block nine shots but were unable to overcome the early deficit.

"I'm just really proud of these guys. I haven't taken many teams in our 14 years in the league up here and went back-to-back like we did -- maybe one or two times," said head coach Greg Kampe. "Took them off of what we came off of, make this business trip, and played the way we played two nights in a row. I'm really, really pleased with the kids."

Fifth-year Tuburu Naivalurua led the team with 26 points, a new career high in his three seasons for the Black and Gold, and recorded a double-double with 10 rebounds. Notably, this marked his second consecutive game collecting double-digit boards. Junior Isaac Garrett contributed significantly with 17 points and matched Naivalurua with 10 rebounds. as senior Ziare Wells scored 14 points and excelled defensively, picking up three steals. Senior Brody Robinson facilitated the offense, adding 10 points and dishing out five assists, continuing his streak of double-digit points in five consecutive games.

Oakland opened the first half by establishing a strong presence in the paint, scoring 26 points from close range. The team capitalized on Phoenix turnovers, converting them into nine points while also securing 11 second-chance points through offensive rebounding. Oakland's zone defense was highlighted by four steals and solid rebounding, maintaining an advantage on the boards with 22 total rebounds compared to the Phoenix's 13.

Garrett and Oakland gained momentum midway through the half with a series of successful fast breaks, including a notable dunk with nine minutes left in the half, assisted by Wells, helping extend the lead. The team maintained control by outpacing the Phoenix in fast-break points, contributing to an eight-point advantage in that category. By the end of the first half, Oakland led 37-31, demonstrating an effective offensive and defensive pressure.

The visitors seized momentum in the second half with a strong offensive performance, scoring 51 points. Garrett opened the half with consecutive plays, scoring a jumper and a layup to extend the lead. Oakland capitalized on their opportunities in the paint, amassing 24 points inside and adding 12 points on fast breaks. Wells contributed significantly with a three-pointer and a fast-break dunk, exemplifying the team's efficient shooting.

The Golden Grizzlies maintained defensive pressure, allowing the Phoenix limited success from beyond the arc, with only one three-pointer made in the half. Naivalurua's consistent scoring, including crucial free throws and a three-pointer, helped Oakland secure a commanding lead off the decisive performance.

The Golden Grizzlies are back in the OU Credit Union O'rena on Wednesday, Jan. 21 to face IU Indy at 7 p.m. ET.


How to Follow Oakland Men's Basketball: For complete information on Oakland Men's Basketball follow the team on X at @OaklandMBB and head coach Greg Kampe at @KampeOU. The team is also on Instagram and Facebook.