JACKSON, Tenn. — The Trevecca Nazarene University Men's Basketball team (12-5, 7-4 GSC) dropped a tough conference matchup, their first loss of 2025, to Union University (10-7, 6-5 GSC). This nail-biting contest ended with an 86-83 result, snapping the Trojans' impressive five-game winning streak.
THE SERIES
With this loss, Trevecca falls to 4-13 against the Bulldogs. Union extended their dominance in the rivalry, now boasting an 11-game winning streak against the Trojans.
BREAKING IT DOWN
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Trevecca opening the game with a three-pointer by
Jalen Page, setting the tone for an intense first half.
Both teams traded blows throughout, with the Trojans pushing their lead to as much as 10 points following a
Jikari Johnson three-pointer at the 12:49 mark.
Trevecca's offensive rhythm shone in the first half as they sank 7-of-16 three-point attempts and hit 13-of-14 free throws.
Their defensive effort was equally impressive, limiting Union to just 2-of-12 shooting from beyond the arc. The Trojans carried a six-point lead (46-40) into halftime, fueled by their precision shooting and defensive resilience.
The second half, however, saw the Bulldogs come out energized. Matching the Trojans shot-for-shot.
Union regained the lead with 12:27 left in the game. From there, the matchup turned into a battle of wills, featuring six lead changes in the final minutes.
Controversy arose in the closing seconds: with Union up by 4 with a minute to play, the Bulldogs capitalized on two free throws to extend their lead. Trevecca responded with a deep three-pointer by
Jalen Page to make it a one-possession game.
The Trojans managed a critical defensive stop, gaining possession with 12 seconds on the clock.
In a final attempt to tie the game,
Jalen Page launched a three-pointer, appearing to draw contact. Despite protests from the Trojans on a pretty clear call—and surprise from Union's own announcers—no foul was called.
Union sealed the victory with two more free throws in the final seconds.
KEY PLAYERS
Jikari Johnson dropped 24 points on 9-of-19 shooting, including five three-pointers.
Mateo Esmeraldo contributed 23 points on an efficient 6-of-12 shooting and 8-of-8 free throws, while dishing out 10 assists. Esmeraldo continues to lead the conference in assists, showcasing his playmaking ability.
Jalen Page added 19 points on 8-of-13 shooting and grabbed 4 rebounds. Page also played a pivotal role in the game's most critical moments, nearly giving the Trojans a chance to tie it late.
THE TEAM
Trevecca shot 43.1% from the field and 34.3% from three-point range. They continued their strong free-throw shooting, hitting 93.8% of their attempts from the line. The Trojans dominated the fast-break points (12) and made 11 points off turnovers. However, Union's edge in points in the paint (42) and second-chance opportunities (15 points) ultimately tipped the scales.
UP NEXT
The Trojans will have a rematch against Montevallo, who defeated them earlier this season. Trevecca will host the Falcons next Thursday at 7:30 p.m., seeking redemption. Following that, they will host Auburn Montgomery on Saturday at 4 p.m. in another key Gulf South Conference matchup.
