ELMHURST, Ill. - The Elmhurst University men's basketball team took down North Central, 80-66, Saturday (Jan. 4) evening inside R.A. Faganel Hall in their first contest of 2025.

Elmhurst improved to 6-7 and an even 2-2 in CCIW action with the win, while the Cardinals fell to 9-4 and 2-2 in conference action. Elmhurst won their fifth-straight game against the Cardinals, and have won eight of their last 10 matchups with NCC since 2022.

The Bluejays came out strong in the first half and held off North Central's spirited second-half comeback, as shooting efficiency and dominance on the boards proved crucial for the home team as the Jays secured their second conference win of the season.

Tagen Pearson had an efficient night for the Jays, dazzling with 18 points, including a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line and four three-pointers. Dominic Trelenberg contributed 18 points and seven rebounds, while Aidyn Boone anchored the interior with nine points and seven rebounds. Sebastian Blachut added 10 points, including key baskets that maintained Elmhurst's momentum.

Elmhurst's superior shooting was pivotal, as they hit 45.3% from the field, including an impressive 11-of-24 (45.8%) from beyond the arc. North Central struggled from three-point range, managing only 6-of-24 (25%). Elmhurst also dominated the rebounding battle, pulling down 43 boards to North Central's 21. The Bluejays capitalized on second-chance opportunities and free throws, converting 21-of-25 attempts at the charity stripe, compared to the Cardinals' 6-of-8.

HOW IT HAPPENED

Elmhurst established their rhythm early, building a 41-22 lead by halftime. Pearson and Trelenberg set the tone with long-range shooting and aggressive drives to the hoop. Elmhurst's bench added 10 points in the first half, and their defense limited North Central to just 9-of-26 shooting. The Cardinals struggled to find their footing, as Elmhurst consistently pressured their shooters and controlled the glass with a commanding 22-9 rebounding edge.

North Central came alive in the second half, scoring 44 points and cutting into Elmhurst's lead. James Bullock led the charge for the visitors with 14 points and seven rebounds, while Terrance Moncrief added 11 points. Despite their efforts, Elmhurst's balanced attack and free-throw precision thwarted any hopes of a comeback. The Cardinals narrowed the gap to single digits at times, but Pearson's late-game three-pointers and Trelenberg's steady scoring ensured the Bluejays remained in control.

UP NEXT

Elmhurst hosts Carthage this upcoming Wednesday (Jan. 8) at 7:00 p.m. inside R.A. Faganel Hall to continue CCIW action.

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