CLINTON, Miss. –The Trevecca Nazarene University men's basketball team (17-8, 12-7 GSC) bounced back with an 85-74 win at Mississippi College (8-18, 4-16 GSC) after suffering consecutive losses for the first time this season.
THE SERIES
With this win, the Trojans sweep the season series against the Choctaws and remain unbeaten historically against MC in men's basketball (2-0).
BREAKING IT DOWN
Despite what the Choctaws' record might have suggested coming into this game, Mississippi College came out with a fighting spirit, making it anything but easy for the Trojans.
Trevecca, coming off back-to-back losses for the first time this season, found themselves in a tightly contested battle early on.
Mississippi College struck first with a 4-0 start, but the Trojans quickly responded and kept pace in a back-and-forth first half.
As the first half progressed, the Trojans began finding their offensive rhythm, eventually stretching their lead to as much as 10 points (32-22) with just over four minutes to play in the half.
Mississippi College managed to close the gap slightly, but Trevecca still carried a six-point advantage into halftime (38-32).
The second half was a continuation of Trevecca's strong offensive finish in the first. Five minutes into the period, the Trojans rebuilt their lead to double digits and never let it go.
Mississippi College managed to get within seven points once, but the Trojans controlled the pace the rest of the way, maintaining a double-digit lead for the majority of the second half and sealing the victory with an 11-point margin.
THE PLAYERS
Mateo Esmeraldo had one of those nights, leading the Trojans with 22 points on an efficient 8-9 shooting, including 2-3 from beyond the arc.
Jikari Johnson followed closely with 21 points, shooting 7-11 from the field and knocking down three three-pointers.
Jalen Page added 15 points while also contributing seven assists, playing a key role in the Trojans' offensive flow.
Great news for the Trojans as
NaVuan Peterson returned to the rotation after sitting out for over a month. Peterson, out since January 4
th, made an immediate impact in his 17 minutes on the floor, tallying 8 points, 7 rebounds, and a steal.
THE TEAM
Trevecca shot an impressive 58.8% from the field, including 37.5% from three-point range and a 76.19% second half (FG). The Trojans also dominated in points off turnovers (21-11) and had meaningful contribution from the bench with 34 bench points, 18 more than Mississippi College. They controlled the paint with 38 points down low and limited Mississippi College's second-chance opportunities, allowing just three second-chance points compared to Trevecca's nine.
UP NEXT
Trevecca will stay on the road as they visit Delta State (15-11, 11-9 GSC) on Saturday at 6:00 p.m.
