ELMHURST, Ill. - The Elmhurst University men's basketball team secured a 73-67 victory over Wheaton College in a CCIW matchup at R.A. Faganel Hall on Saturday (Dec. 7) evening.

The Bluejays improved to 4-4 and 1-1 in league play with the win, while Wheaton fell to 3-7 and 0-1 in the CCIW.

Dominic Trelenberg led the Bluejays with a standout performance, scoring 22 points, including four three-pointers. Jack Cherry contributed significantly from the free-throw line, making 6 of 7 attempts, while Jaiden Malichi was perfect at the line, hitting all six of his free throws and securing seven total rebounds. Aidyn Boone made an impact defensively with two steals and added 12 points, including two three-pointers. Tagen Pearson also showed strong shooting from beyond the arc, making 3 of 4 three-point attempts and finishing with 16 points.

HOW IT HAPPENED

Elmhurst started the first half strongly, taking an early lead with Cherry sinking two free throws in the first minute. Boone added to this with a three-pointer, and Trelenberg also hit a three, putting the Bluejays ahead 8-2. Wheaton struggled with turnovers, committing seven in the half, which the Bluejays capitalized on with points from Boone and Sebastian Blachut's free throws. Despite some missed opportunities, the Bluejays' consistent scoring from various players, including a late three-pointer by Trelenberg, enabled them to maintain control, finishing the half with a 36-27 lead over Wheaton.

In the second half, the Bluejays and Wheaton engaged in a closely contested basketball game. Wheaton's Kyle Neibch started the half strong with a three-pointer, narrowing the score to 36-30. The Bluejays' Blachut and Trelenberg responded with key plays, pushing the Bluejays ahead. Notably, Trelenberg and Pearson hit critical three-pointers, helping the Bluejays maintain their lead. Despite Wheaton's Devin Martin contributing with several points, the Bluejays held on to a slim advantage, ultimately finishing the half with a score of 73-67.

UP NEXT

The Bluejays will face Illinois Wesleyan on Saturday, December 15, at 4:00 p.m. at the Shirk Center in Bloomington, Illinois.

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