BRANDON, Man. – The Regina Cougars spoiled the Brandon Bobcats home-opener Friday night by picking up a 90-83 victory.
 
The two teams were neck and neck through the first 15 minutes before a 11-3 run from the Cougars to close the second quarter created enough of a gap that the Bobcats couldn't catch up.
 
Regina continued to roll early in the third, extending the lead to as much as 19, but the Bobcats battled back late in the fourth but it was too little too late.
 
Five Cougars finished in double figures, led by Carter Millar's team-high 22 points. Brayden Kuski finished with 18 points including a circus three pointer to close out the third quarter.
 
Nick Barnard had 13 points while Matt Barnad had a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds.
 
The Bobcats were led by Sultan Haider Bhatti's team-high 22 points, which game on 7-for-11 shooting from the floor.
 
Jahmaal Gardner had 20 pints and Anthony Tsegakele finished with 11 points.
 
The two teams meet again Saturday evening in Brandon to conclude the weekend series. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.