HAYWARD, Calif. – The Jessup University Men's Basketball team opened their 2025-26 campaign on Friday night with an impressive victory over Stanislaus State at the Pioneer Challenge, 78-68
Jessup set the tone early in the contest, using efficient scoring and disciplined defense to build a five-point advantage, leading Stanislaus State 34-29 at the half. Despite a tight, physical matchup, the Warriors managed to control the pace and secure key offensive rebounds to maintain the momentum heading into the locker room. Both teams struggled with three-point shooting in the half, making the inside presence crucial.
The second half saw Jessup slightly increase the margin, outscoring Stanislaus State by ten points late into the game. This was driven by a commitment to attacking the rim, which resulted in the Warriors living at the free-throw line. Jessup was remarkably successful from the charity stripe, finishing the night 27-of-35 (77.1%), demonstrating tremendous focus and poise under pressure. The Warriors also moved the ball effectively throughout the game, accumulating 18 total assists on 23 made field goals, a positive indicator of team chemistry early in the season. Jessup also held a key slight advantage in the rebounding battle, pulling down 36 total boards compared to Stanislaus State's 35.
The victory was spearheaded by a trio of standout performances. Forward Tom Parsons led all scorers with a game-high 19 points, with a perfect 10-10 performance at the free throw line. In only twelve minutes of playing time, Aleksandar Mitrovic accumulated six points, six rebounds and three assists. Second in points was Varick Lewis who tallied 17 points, came down with a rebound and provided two assists.
Head Coach Mark Darnall shared his encouraging words about the team's overall performance, "Really proud of our group's effort in our first game. I thought we defended well and made things difficult for them all night." He continued, "We showed great unselfishness on the offensive end, and the 18 assists reflect that. Everyone on our team found a way to contribute to the win."
The Warriors will close out the Pioneer Challenge against CSU East Bay tomorrow night. Tipoff will be at 7:30pm.
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Jessup University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division II and the PacWest Conference. For additional information regarding Jessup Athletics, visit www.jessupathletics.com; visit www.jessup.edu for more information on Jessup University. Follow Jessup Athletics on social media: Jessup University Athletics (Facebook) and @JessupAthletics (Instagram & X).
