NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Trevecca Nazarene University men's basketball team (14-5, 9-4 GSC) defeated the University of Auburn Montgomery (8-10, 5-8 GSC) by a score of 88-76 to secure their position in the top three of the Gulf South Conference standings.
THE SERIES
With this victory, the Trojans sweep the season series against AUM, improving to 2-1 historically against the Warhawks. Trevecca previously defeated AUM earlier this season on the road.
BREAKING IT DOWN
The game began as a tightly contested matchup, with both teams trading baskets and neither establishing a lead greater than three points during the opening minutes.
It wasn't until the 8:29 mark of the first half, that a team found a more-than-one possession lead: AUM led 22-18. However, this was the turning point for the Trojans, as they went on a commanding 30-15 run to close the half.
Trevecca carried a 48-34 lead into the break, extending their impressive streak of not trailing at halftime to 343 days.
The Trojans showcased their shooting efficiency, hitting 58.06% from the field in the first half, including 55.56% from three-point range.
The second half saw a more competitive effort from AUM, as the Warhawks tried to claw their way back into the game. Despite their attempts, Trevecca's timely and effective shooting (54.2% FG for the game) and their ability to control the pace prevented AUM from closing the gap.
The Trojans maintained their composure down the stretch, securing the 88-76 victory.
THE PLAYERS
Jikari Johnson scored 18 points on 6-of-12 shooting, including three three-pointers, while adding six rebounds, one block, and two steals.
Jalen Page added 17 points and six rebounds, shooting 6-of-14 from the field. Page also recorded four assists and two steals.
Mateo Esmeraldo tallied 15 points, four rebounds, and a game-high 11 assists, continuing his stellar playmaking.
Caleb Terry contributed 12 points and eight rebounds, playing a crucial role in the paint.
Hank Hutcheson added 10 points and grabbed 5 rebounds.
THE TEAM
Trevecca finished the game shooting 54.2% from the field and 47.6% from three-point range. Their free-throw shooting was efficient as well, converting 87.5% of their attempts (14-of-16). Despite AUM's edge in bench points (22-19) and second-chance points (16-12), the Trojans' shooting efficiency and ability to force turnovers (25 points off turnovers) proved to be the difference.
UP NEXT
Trevecca will hit the road to face West Alabama (9-9, 5-7 GSC) on Thursday at 7:00 p.m. and will have a rematch against an unbeaten Alabama Huntsville (17-1, 12-0 GSC) Saturday at 4:00 p.m.
