WHITEWATER, Wis.—Elmhurst men's basketball went toe-to-toe with one of the nation's top programs on Tuesday night, showing toughness and strong stretches of execution before ultimately falling 88–72 to Wis.-Whitewater inside the Williams Center. The Bluejays led multiple times in a high-paced first half and continued to compete throughout against a Warhawk squad that entered the night 5–1.
Elmhurst opened the game with confidence, exchanging leads five times in the first 20 minutes and matching Whitewater's offensive pace shot-for-shot behind efficient ball movement and timely scoring. The Bluejays shot 16-of-29 in the opening period—including five three-pointers—and trailed just 46–40 at the break.
Dominic Trelenberg fueled the Bluejay offense with an 18-point night, knocking down two threes and adding five rebounds with no turnovers in 38 minutes of action. Sebastian Blachut provided another strong performance, scoring 14 points on 5-of-8 shooting while distributing four assists. Forward Aidyn Boone continued to shine, delivering 12 points, including two threes and a pair of key second-half baskets.
Elmhurst also received an important spark from EJ Marshall, who added 10 points off the bench, while Jack Cherry anchored the interior with six rebounds, seven points, three assists, and two steals. Vinnie Adjahoungbeta contributed six rebounds, two blocks, and five points while helping Elmhurst stay competitive on the defensive end.
Despite the Bluejays' strong first half, Whitewater's size and scoring depth allowed the Warhawks to pull away late. The hosts shot 34-of-58 from the field and generated 52 points in the paint. Elmhurst countered with 32 points in the lane and 22 points from the bench, but Whitewater's second-half surge proved the difference.
The Bluejays finished the night shooting 25-of-53 overall and 7-of-22 from beyond the arc, while going 15-of-21 at the free-throw line. Elmhurst forced eight turnovers and earned four steals but was challenged by Whitewater's ability to sustain pressure and convert in transition.
Though the result did not fall the Bluejays' way, the performance once again highlighted the group's balance, energy, and willingness to compete on the road against elite competition. Elmhurst (5–2) will now look to regroup and continue building momentum as the season progresses.
