ANGOLA, Ind. - The Elmhurst University men's basketball team fell to No. 1 Trine, 95-67, on Saturday (Nov. 23) afternoon at the MTI Center in Angola, Indiana.

The Bluejays fall to an overall record of 2-2, while the top-ranked Thunder remained undefeated with a 5-0 overall record.

The Bluejays featured notable performances from several players, as Dominic Trelenberg led the team with 21 points, shooting 9-of-13 from the field, and contributed eight rebounds. Jaiden Malichi added 15 points, making 6-of-9 field goal attempts, and also recorded a block. Sebastian Blachut also stood out with four assists, while Tagen Pearson made a defensive impact with two steals and also adding five points.

Drew Moore led the Thunder with 27 points, making 10 of 13 baskets and 6 of 7 free throws. He also contributed six rebounds and five assists. Nate Tucker added 23 points, successfully hitting 10 of 14 shots from the field, including three 3-pointers. Fred Garland was effective as a guard, scoring 14 points on 7 of 9 shooting, with two steals and five assists. Aidan Smylie made a significant defensive impact with four steals and three blocks, while Cam Smith provided crucial playmaking by dishing out eight assists and securing two steals.

HOW IT HAPPENED

In the first half of the game between Elmhurst and Trine, the Bluejays established an early lead with a 6-0 run, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Pearson. Elmhurst maintained a scoring edge throughout much of the half, leading 23-16 at one point. However, Trine's Drew Moore and Fred Garland helped close the gap with a series of successful layups, bringing the score to a tie at 16 and later taking a 24-23 lead. By the end of the half, Trine pulled ahead 40-33, aided by Nate Tucker's 3-pointer and a late surge in offensive rebounds and defensive plays.

In the second half, Trine extended their lead with a strong offensive performance, outscoring the Bluejays 55-34. Trine's Drew Moore contributed significantly with multiple successful layups and a 3-pointer, while Cam Smith and Fred Garland added to the scoring with fast-break layups. Elmhurst struggled to keep pace despite efforts from Trelenberg, who made several key layups. Trine capitalized on turnover opportunities and maintained a steady scoring pace, finishing the half with a commanding lead.

UP NEXT 

The Bluejays are set to host Saint Mary's (MN) on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. inside R.A. Faganel Hall.

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