CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The Elmhurst University men's basketball team wrapped up it's two-game stretch at the Jay Bilas Classic on Friday (Dec. 20) evening, falling to No. 18 Christopher Newport, 82-80, at Curry Arena.

Elmhurst fell to 4-7 with their second-straight loss, while the nationally-ranked Captains improved to 10-2 on the season.

The Bluejays started strong, leveraging efficient shooting to keep pace with the Captains' physical and fast-paced style of play. Elmhurst led several times in the first half and even pulled within striking distance late in the second half, but crucial turnovers and timely plays by Christopher Newport in the final moments ultimately made the difference.

Elmhurst excelled from beyond the arc, hitting 10 three-pointers and converting 18 of 28 free throws. Their strong ball movement and defensive intensity disrupted Christopher Newport at key moments, allowing Elmhurst to capitalize on turnovers and fast-break opportunities. Despite trailing by two points at halftime, Elmhurst never relented, coming within one possession of victory multiple times in the second half.

Tagen Pearson delivered a stellar performance, leading Elmhurst with 26 points, including five three-pointers and a near-perfect 9-for-11 from the free-throw line. Dominic Trelenberg added 21 points and was a key contributor on both ends of the floor. Aidyn Boone showcased his versatility, scoring 11 points, grabbing six rebounds, and dishing out three assists.

For the Captains, Ethan Ward dominated inside, finishing with 20 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring the designated home team's presence in the paint. Toa Hollenbeck scored g 21 points, including four three-pointers and a crucial fast-break layup in the second half. Tyson Henderson added 18 points and added three steals, while Collin Hines contributed eight points and pulled down 10 rebounds.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The game began with Trelenberg hitting a quick jumper, and Christopher Newport answered back with Tyson Henderson converting a fast-break layup after a steal. The teams traded baskets in the early minutes, with Elmhurst finding success in the paint through Sebastian Blachut and Pearson hitting from deep. Elmhurst briefly took the lead midway through the half, thanks to their sharp three-point shooting. However, Christopher Newport's bench played a pivotal role, with Hollenbeck coming in to sink multiple three-pointers. Ward was a force on the boards, converting second-chance opportunities into points. Despite turnovers that gave Christopher Newport easy scoring chances, Elmhurst stayed within striking distance, finishing the half down 48-46 after a late three-pointer from Pearson.

The second half opened with Elmhurst trying to reclaim the lead. Trelenberg's fast-break layup and Boone's aggressive play inside brought Elmhurst within one point early. However, Christopher Newport capitalized on Elmhurst's turnovers, with Hollenbeck hitting a transition three-pointer and Ward finishing a tough and-one play in the paint. Elmhurst responded with clutch shooting from Pearson, who sank back-to-back three-pointers to keep the Jays in the game.

As the game entered its final minutes, both teams traded momentum. Elmhurst tied the game on a free throw by Pearson, but Christopher Newport's Henderson responded with a critical steal and layup. Elmhurst had a chance to tie or take the lead in the closing seconds, but a missed three-pointer and a crucial turnover sealed their fate. Christopher Newport's Hollenbeck iced the game with two free throws, ending a valiant effort from Elmhurst.

UP NEXT

The Bluejays stay on the road for a matchup at Milwaukee School of Engineering on Monday, Dec. 30, with tipoff scheduled for 7:00 pm in Milwaukee, Wis.

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