By Bill Dickens
© EastCountySports.com

PALM DESERT (11-06-16) — Daniel McCowen scored 15 points to lead the Griffins and David Wheeler added 12 as Grossmont College defeated Imperial Valley College 63-59 to capture the 3rd place trophy of the Frank Garcia/COD Tip Off Classic on Saturday (Nov. 5).

The victory gave Grossmont a 2-1 finish in the 3-day tournament.

Ronald Blain led the Griffins in the battle of the boards, collecting 10 caroms. He also dropped in 5 points, blocked a shot and dished 4 assists.

Quinn Skillin chipped in with 8 points, 3 rebounds and one assist, while Bryce Parsons tossed in 8 points and logged 3 assists.

A layup by Kyle Ruiz gave the Griffins a 40-21 halftime lead. With 10:50 to play the Griffins led 50-33 following a bucket by Skillin.

IVC slashed the Griffins' lead to 55-54 with 2:51 remaining.

McCowen made four free throws with 9 seconds left to seal deal.

Grossmont College will next participate in the SBVC Alvin Hunter Classic on Friday (Nov. 18), meeting Antelope Valley College at 1 p.m. in San Bernardino.