Free win for UCI

DAVIS ? Another break from Big West Conference play provided UC Irvine’s men’s basketball team with one of its better performances of the season.

The Anteaters shot 61.9% from the field in the first half and went on to defeat UC Davis, 82-68, in a nonconference game Thursday night. UCI made all 21 of its free throws in the game.

Besides their field-goal percentage, the Anteaters (16-11) made 4 of 6 three-pointers and all 10 of their free-throw attempts in the first half. UC Davis, on the other hand, made just nine baskets as UCI led, 40-28, at the half.

Darren Fells led the way with a team-high 17 points and a game-high 13 rebounds. Nic Campbell and Patrick Sanders each added 16 points, with Campbell making four three-pointers. Shamar Armstrong continued his offensive surge with 10 points.

Aaron Fitzgerald finished with nine points and seven assists for UCI, which plays host to Long Beach State on March 4.

David Carter scored 19 points to lead the Aggies (8-17).