Embry-Riddle returned to the win column Friday afternoon with a 62–53 victory over Westcliff at CGCC, fueled by a dominant first-half performance and clutch free-throw shooting down the stretch.

The Eagles (8–6, 1–2) came out firing, building a commanding 38–21 lead at halftime behind sharp perimeter shooting and stifling defense. ERAU shot 50% from the field in the opening period, including 5-of-11 from beyond the arc, while holding Westcliff to just 32% shooting.

Noah Gifft led the way with 16 points and seven rebounds, hitting two three-pointers and going a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line. Peter Dress added 14 points and seven boards, while Jacey Canalin contributed 10 points, four assists, and three steals despite battling foul trouble. Matur Dhal anchored the paint with nine points and eight rebounds, and Christian Wells chipped in six points and three steals.

Westcliff mounted a second-half rally, outscoring ERAU 32–24 and trimming the deficit to single digits late, but the Eagles' composure at the line sealed the win. ERAU finished 14-of-15 from the stripe (93.3%) and forced 14 turnovers, converting them into 13 points.

The Eagles' defense held Westcliff to 35.7% shooting overall and limited their fast-break opportunities to zero points. ERAU also dominated second-chance scoring (13–6) and maintained control despite a physical contest that featured 16 fouls on each side.

Embry-Riddle will return to play again on January 2nd at Justice College.