The Loyola Marymount Lions are hosting their first tournament at Gersten Pavilion in 19 years, the DoubleTree Los Angeles Westside Centennial Classic. However, the Columbia Lions were rude guests on Friday night, riding a strong first half to a 69-61 win over LMU on day one of the three-day tournament. The loss snapped a three-game winning streak by Loyola Marymount.
Columbia built a 36-22 lead by halftime, shooting 56.5% from the field and making six of the 11 three-point shots. On the game, Columbia made 12 of 19 shots from beyond the arc. Brian Barbour hit four of those three-pointers and led Columbia with 24 points.
Anthony Ireland led LMU with 17 points and five rebounds in the loss. LMU was outrebounded 36-22.
North Texas had no trouble with La Sierra earlier Friday, winning 92-45 in the opening game of the tournament. LMU hosts La Sierra Saturday night on day two of the tournament.