VICTORIA, B.C. - The University of Victoria Vikes men's basketball team were edged 81-80 in over time by Westminster University on Dec. 29 at the 39th Tom Byron Classic. This is the first of two exhibition games happening over the holiday break for the Vikes who are currently on tour in Santa Barbara, Calif. 

Fifth-year forward Chris McLaughlin was the top Vike, posting a double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds in 37 minutes played. Jordan Charles finished with 18 points and three assists, while Reiner Theil logged 10 points and four rebounds. Fourth-year point guard Marcus Tibbs had a team-high five assists, as well as nine points.

Westminster had four players log double digits including Jordan Pryor with 18, both Quincy Bair and Casey Evans with 16 and Kenny Woodard with 11. Pryor drained four buckets from beyond the arc and was perfect from the line to help his team edge the Vikes 22-10 in over time for the win. 

The Vikes opened the game with a 36-30 edge at half time after some quality first-half ball movement and scoring. In the second frame it was Westminster who edged the Vikes, out-scoring them 40-34 to leave the game tied at 70-70.

In over time the teams stayed on par with each other as Pryor got his team off to a good start with a three but McLaughlin's following dunk kept the game in check. A free throw from Mack Roth and a trey from Tibbs got the Vikes back in the lead, up 76-75. It came right down the wire as a three-pointer by Evans had the game tied at 78 before McLaughlin put one in from inside the paint to give the Vikes a one basket lead.

Pryor watched his fourth three-point shot of the night drop with three seconds on the clock to put the Vikes away 81-80, giving Westminster their first win of the tournament. The Vikes will head in two Game 2 with an 0-1 record.

Up next the Vikes will play Westmont College on Dec. 30 at 7:30 p.m. Westminster will play Saskatchewan at 3 p.m. For live stats and up to date scores Click Here.