NASHVILLE – The Trevecca Nazarene University men's basketball team (4-1) hosted Cumberland University (0-6) on Saturday and dominated with a
95-56 blowout at the Trojan Fieldhouse in their final non-conference game before opening Gulf South Conference play.
THE SERIES
This win marked the Trojans' first victory in four meetings against Cumberland in men's basketball.
BREAKING IT DOWN
For the first time this season, the Trojans did not score first. Cumberland opened the game with a quick 5-0 run, but Trevecca responded immediately with an 11-0 surge and never looked back. The Trojans had a hot start from beyond the arc, knocking down six three-pointers before the 10-minute mark of the first half. They carried a commanding 50-27 lead to the break.
Trevecca's 50-point first half marked the third time this season they reached that mark before halftime, a feat they only accomplished twice during the entire 2023-24 campaign.
The Trojans displayed a well-rounded effort on both ends of the floor, controlling the glass with a 53-36 rebounding advantage and scoring 25 fastbreak points.
Their ability to sustain their offensive rhythm and defensive pressure in the second half saw them extend their lead to as much as 41 points, eventually closing the game with a decisive 95-56 victory.
KEY PLAYERS
Jikari Johnson delivered an exceptional performance, scoring a game-high 30 points on 5-of-8 shooting from three, adding five rebounds and one assist.
Jalen Page recorded 15 points, four rebounds, and one assist while hitting three three-pointers.
NaVuan Peterson contributed across the board with nine points, eight rebounds, and five assists.
Hank Hutcheson provided a spark off the bench with nine points and three rebounds.
THE TEAM
Trevecca showcased another impressive team effort, dishing out 23 assists on 31 made field goals and converting 13 three-pointers on 38 attempts (34.2%) while limiting their turnovers to just 10. They dominated second-chance opportunities with 15 points off 16 offensive rebounds and held Cumberland to a mere 30.3% shooting from the field. The Trojans' defense also forced 11 turnovers, converting them into 17 points on the other end.
The bench contributed significantly as well, tallying 28 points to help the Trojans maintain their high pace throughout the game.
UP NEXT
The Trojans open Gulf South Conference play at home on Wednesday, November 27, against the University of Alabama Huntsville (4-1). Tipoff is set for 3:00 p.m. at Trojan Fieldhouse.
