MILWAUKEE, Wis. - The Elmhurst University men's basketball team snapped their two-game skid with an 89-81 road victory over Milwaukee School of Engineering on Monday (Dec. 30) evening.

Elmhurst improves to 5-7 following the non-conference finale, while MSOE dropped to 6-5 with the loss. The Bluejays dominated early and held off a strong second-half rally by MSOE.

Tagen Pearson led Elmhurst with an impressive 23 points, including five three-pointers, showcasing his long-range shooting prowess. Sebastian Blachut was instrumental with 19 points on an efficient 8-of-10 shooting while adding four rebounds and three assists. Dominic Trelenberg delivered a double-double, scoring 15 points and grabbing 15 rebounds, anchoring the team's presence in the paint.

Elmhurst shot 55.2% from the field and hit 43.8% of their three-pointers (14 of 32), compared to MSOE's 42.4% shooting overall and 40.7% from beyond the arc (11 of 27). The Bluejays capitalized on their efficiency, particularly in fast-break opportunities, outscoring MSOE 12-6 in that category. Both teams dished out 17 assists, but Elmhurst's rebounding edge (32-27) played a significant role in the win.

HOW IT HAPPENED

Elmhurst stormed out of the gates, outscoring MSOE 48-32 in the first half. The Bluejays showcased exceptional perimeter shooting, making 11 three-pointers in the half. Pearson's hot hand set the tone early, while Trelenberg's tenacious rebounding limited second-chance opportunities for MSOE. Blachut contributed timely baskets, keeping Elmhurst in control. MSOE's Mason Dopirak attempted to keep his team in the game with sharp shooting but faced an uphill battle against Elmhurst's relentless defense.

MSOE came alive in the second half, outscoring Elmhurst 49-41. Mason Dopirak led the charge with 30 points, including six three-pointers, as the Raiders tightened the score with a flurry of shots from deep. Elmhurst's defense, led by Aidyn Boone's three blocks, held firm during critical moments. Although MSOE reduced the deficit, Elmhurst's balanced scoring and clutch free-throw shooting (11 of 13) sealed the victory.

UP NEXT

Elmhurst returns to action in the new year, hosting North Central to begin the two-month conference schedule on Saturday, Jan. 4. Tipoff is scheduled for 4:15 p.m. inside R.A. Faganel Hall.

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