Box Score TAYLORSVILLE, Utah (February 28, 2020) - The No. 7 Salt Lake Community College men's basketball team is on the path towards accomplishing its second major team goal of the 2019-20 season - winning a Region 18 championships.

The Bruins claimed an 80-70 win over USU Eastern in the Region 18 semifinals at Southern Idaho on Friday, advancing to Saturday's championship game (SLCC won last in 2017). The win boosts SLCC's overall record to 27-4.

Salt Lake took an impressive halftime lead (47-34), shooting 50 percent in the first half (17-of-34) and making 6 three-point shots. USU Eastern fought back in the second half but SLCC never trailed in the game from there, leading the rest of the way. SLCC forced 17 turnovers and scored 20 points off those turnovers, highlighting the defensive control. 

Bruins coach Kyle Taylor praised his team's energy in the win.

"I'm proud of our game," he said. "We don't quit. We got up big early and then USU Eastern made a long run to cut the score to three. I tip my hat to USU Eastern; they play really hard and they never quit or go away."

James Lee led the way with 13 points, while Asa McCord posted 12 points. Justice Hill scored 11 points as well, with the Bruins having 9 players in total score. 

Salt Lake will play for the Region 18 championship on Saturday, looking to claim the region title for the first time since 2017. The game will start approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of the Region 18 women's championship game.