The stage is set tonight in Thatcher as Eastern Arizona College welcomes No. 14 College of Southern Idaho to Guitteau Gymnasium for a 7:00 p.m. non-conference showdown that carries weight well beyond December.
Eastern Arizona enters the night 7–4 overall, 6–1 at home, and receiving votes in the latest national poll, while CSI arrives at 12–1 and ranked 14th nationally. The Golden Eagles claimed the first meeting 74–64 in Twin Falls, but the rematch shifts to one of the toughest home floors in the region — and that matters.
The first game was closer than the final score suggested.
EAC established itself early behind Ryan Hunt, who scored the Monsters’ first four points and set the tone inside. Eastern Arizona led midway through the first half and stayed within striking distance throughout, but CSI’s perimeter shooting, six first-half threes allowed, the Golden Eagles to take a 36–30 lead at the break.
The Monsters came out swinging in the second half.
Eastern Arizona erased the deficit and grabbed a 44–42 lead with just under 14 minutes remaining, sparked by interior scoring from Kahu Treacher and timely shooting from Malachi Seely-Roberts. For long stretches, EAC dictated pace and forced CSI to respond.
What decided the game were the margins.
CSI leaned on second-chance points and free throws during a critical mid-half stretch, stretching a one-possession game back to two. Eastern Arizona continued to battle, cutting the lead to five late, but the Golden Eagles closed the door at the line.
Tonight, the Monsters bring numbers that demand attention.
Eastern Arizona averages 79.5 points per game, allows just 72.0, shoots 45.7 percent from the floor, and nearly 40 percent from three-point range. Five players score in double figures, led by Ryan Hunt (12.1 ppg), with Derek Collins, Kahu Treacher, Kofi Peyton, and Ryder Bush providing balance, spacing, and playmaking. At home, those numbers tend to climb and so does the noise.
CSI brings polish and patience. The Golden Eagles have beaten quality opponents across the West and shown they can win tight games, with their only loss coming to #16 Odessa College. They are disciplined, physical, and comfortable playing late.
This rematch comes down to details, rebounding, free throws, and execution when possessions get heavy. The first meeting proved the gap is narrow. The second meeting brings a louder building, a confident group, and a Monsters team knocking on the national door.
Tipoff is set for 7:00 p.m. MST. You can hear the game locally on KATO 1230AM. The game will also be broadcast on the EAC Athletics YouTube Channel.
