NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Trevecca Nazarene University men's basketball team opened their season on homecoming weekend with a decisive 93-73 exhibition win over Covenant College at the Trojan Fieldhouse.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Trevecca ignited the game with a 10-2 run, setting the tone early and never looking back. Newcomers NaVaun Peterson and
Jikari Johnson each contributed five points during the opening burst, giving the Trojans an early edge. Trevecca's defense was equally dominant, recording four blocks within the first nine minutes, putting pressure on Covenant's offense.
The Trojans' lead swelled to 18-4 before Covenant managed to find any rhythm. The Scots mounted a few small runs but struggled to cut deeply into Trevecca's advantage, allowing the Trojans to maintain a double-digit lead into halftime, going in with a comfortable 13-point cushion.
In the second half, Covenant fought back and managed to close the gap to six points. But the Trojans responded swiftly with a 12-0 run, widening the lead to 18 and effectively sealing the game. From that point, Trevecca controlled the pace, keeping a comfortable lead until the final buzzer.
THE TEAM
The Trojans shot 46.4% from the field and out-rebounded Covenant 46-44. Trevecca also dominated in second-chance points, securing 20 compared to Covenant's 12, while scoring 50 points in the paint. The Trojans also added nine blocks, already matching last year's season-high.
THE PLAYERS
Jikari Johnson led the Trojans' offensive push with 16 points, shooting 42.9% from the field. He added 5 rebounds and 2 blocks.
NaVaun Peterson provided a strong presence in the paint, finishing with 14 points on 3-of-7 shooting, along with 7 rebounds and 2 assists.
Mateo Esmeraldo also contributed effectively with 8 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals, while
Jalen Page chipped in 7 points, grabbed 8 rebounds, dished out 3 assists and 2 blocks.
UP NEXT
The Trojans will hit the road to face Palm Beach Atlantic next Friday at 6:00 p.m. and Embry-Riddle University Saturday at 1:00 p.m.
