In a tight game that could have gone either way, the Alberta Golden Bears defeated the University of Manitoba Bisons men’s basketball team 80-69 on February 6, 2010. The game was at a deadlock until the last two minutes when Alberta pulled away for the victory at the Investors Group Athletic Centre.

The start of the game was much like the ending of the previous night’s game. Alberta built up a solid lead, at one point they were up 14-7. Led by guard Nathan Dixon, the Bisons were able to cut into the Golden Bears lead, capped off by a basket-and-one by Jonar Huertas. But Alberta pushed away going into the break and led 23-13.

Alberta seemed poised to extend their lead in the second quarter. Led by guard Ken Otieno’s 12 points in the first half, the Golden Bears had as much as a three point lead. But the Bisons wouldn’t quit as they roared back with three pointers and strong defence. Frustrating the Albertan squad, Manitoba was able to move within three points at the break, down 39-36.

The third quarter was a back and forth affair, with both teams putting up some big shots. Fifth year guard Nathan Dixon was leading the way for the Bisons as he made a couple clutch three’s to keep Manitoba in it. In his final home game Dixon was on fire and along with Dan Purvis-Collins were shouldering the point load for the Herd. With both teams providing some exciting basketball, Alberta went into the final quarter up 60-58.

The final quarter of the game was looking like Manitoba was going to upset the Golden Bears, but in the last few minutes of the game things started to unravel for Manitoba as the deficit they faced grew larger until it was 10 points with a minute left. Alberta was able to hold off the Bisons on their way to the win.

Honoured before the game for his five years of service at the University of Manitoba, Nathan Dixon scored a game high 24 points and added four assists in the loss. Purvis-Collins added 20 points and eight rebounds.

Alberta was led by guard Scott Leigh’s 20 points. Otieno chipped in with 15 points.

The Bisons play their final regular season game of the 2009-2010 season when they take on the Winnipeg Wesmen on February 11, 2010. Game time is set for 8:00p.m. The Alberta Golden Bears regular season is done and will wait to see if they will play in the playoffs.