ELMHURST, Ill. - Elmhurst fell to Augustana (IL), 77-66, at R.A. Faganel Hall on Wednesday (Dec. 4) in their CCIW opener.

The Bluejays fall to 3-4 on the season, and an 0-1 mark in the CCIW, while the Vikings hold a 5-1 overall record with a 1-0 mark in conference action.

Dominic Trelenberg stood out for the Bluejays, leading with 16 points and recording 12 total rebounds. His performance included six baskets, tying him for the team lead in made baskets. Vinnie Adjahoungbeta also contributed defensively with two steals, highlighting his presence on the floor. Tagen Pearson added another two steals and finished with 12 points. Aidyn Boone was effective from beyond the arc, making two out of five 3-pointers and adding two steals to his stat line.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The first half between the Bluejays and the Vikings started with Augustana's Staishaun Kelley making a 3-pointer early, followed by several turnovers from both teams. Elmhurst's Jaiden Malichi responded with a dunk at 18:32, narrowing Augustana's lead. Throughout the half, Elmhurst capitalized on turnovers, with Trelenberg assisting multiple plays and securing defensive rebounds, helping Elmhurst to a 37-30 lead by the end of the half. Despite the Vikings' efforts, including Evan Ambrose's successful jumper at 15:10, Elmhurst maintained a slim but consistent lead with key contributions from Sebastian Blachut's 3-point and layup plays towards the end of the half.

In the second half, Augie outscored the Bluejays 47-29. Malichi started the half strong for Elmhurst with a layup at the beginning, but Augustana quickly gained momentum with Staischaun Kelley and Tyler Knuth contributing to a scoring run that narrowed the gap. Tyler Knuth was particularly effective, scoring consecutive free throws and a 3-pointer around the midpoint. Despite a brief rally by Elmhurst, led by Trelenberg's tip-in and 3-pointer, Augustana's strong finish, including a 3-pointer by Colton Gillingham, secured their lead.

UP NEXT

The Bluejays will face Wheaton College this Saturday, December 7, at 4:15 p.m. inside R.A. Faganel Hall.

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