CEDAR CITY, Utah-Monday, Southern Utah University director of athletics Debbie Corum issued the following statement concerning a scoring error that occurred in the men’s basketball game between the Thunderbirds and the California Golden Bears November 18 at Haas Pavilion of Berkeley, Calif.

“The bookkeeping error that occurred during our men’s basketball game at Cal was an unfortunate but critical mistake. Our coaching staff made every effort to bring it to the attention of the officials and the Cal employees working the scorer’s table at the appropriate time during the game, but were unsuccessful in their justified efforts to protest. Following a thorough review of the film, it is clear our team was not awarded a point for a successful free-throw attempt during the game. This was not simply an officiating error or judgement call that did not go in our favor, but a failure to uphold the rules and standards of the game of basketball. Unfortunately, the NCAA does not allow a postgame protest in this situation, so we are left with no choice but to accept the consequence of the error and live with the result of the game. Our men’s basketball program will move forward from this frustrating situation and undoubtedly finish the season strong.”

T-Birds sophomore center Jason Spurgin shot two free throws at the 14:02 mark of the second half. The native of Toowoomba, Australia successfully converted both attempts but was only awarded a point for his efforts.

Subsequently, the T-Birds and Golden Bears went into overtime deadlocked 57-57 with California ultimately prevailing 75-68 in double overtime. This game was part of the Rocket Mortgage Fort Myers Tip-off.

SUU returns to action to ensue this tournament Tuesday against Yale at Fort Myers, Fla. for a 10:00 am MST opening tip.