ROCKLIN, Calif. – Jessup University Men's Basketball (5-5, 2-2 PacWest) sent the crowd home happy on Saturday night, securing their third consecutive victory with a commanding win over Pacific Union College (0-11) at Warrior Arena, 90-51.
The Warriors wasted no time establishing their dominance, opening the contest with a suffocating defense that held the Pioneers to just 19 points in the first half. Jessup's offensive efficiency was equally impressive, as they shot 52.9% from the field and capitalized on their size advantage to build a massive 53-19 lead by the intermission.
"I'm really pleased with the focus our guys brought tonight," said Head Coach Mark Darnall. "After two tough road wins in the Bay Area, it was important for us to come home and maintain that same level of intensity. Our depth was a major factor tonight, and seeing the bench contribute 50 points shows the growth of this group."
Freshman forward Kendall Connor Jr. provided a massive spark off the bench, leading all scorers with 15 points on 7-of-10 shooting. Connor Jr. was a force on the glass as well, coming just one rebound shy of a double-double with nine boards in 17 minutes of action.
The starters set a physical tone early, led by Aleksandar Mitrovic, who finished with 12 points on a nearly perfect 5-of-6 shooting night. Andre Norris added nine points, five rebounds, and two steals, while Amarlie Wilkinson chipped in nine points and four boards.
Point guard Curro Segura orchestrated the floor with veteran composure, finishing with a team-high six assists and matching Connor Jr. for the team lead in rebounds with nine.
Statistically, the Warriors dominated nearly every facet of the game. Jessup out-rebounded Pacific Union 52-24 and exploited the interior for 48 points in the paint. The Warriors also showcased their range, connecting on 12-of-25 (48%) from beyond the arc.
The second unit remained aggressive throughout the second half, with Kenechi Onuaguluchi and Troy Crighton helping to extend the lead as high as 41 points. Jessup's 50 bench points were the most in a single game this season, illustrating the "next man up" mentality that has fueled their current winning streak.
The win marks a successful return to Warrior Arena following a perfect 2-0 road trip earlier in the week. The Warriors will now enjoy a two-week break for the holidays before returning to PacWest Conference action.
Behind a relentless defensive effort and a high-octane bench performance, the Warriors moved back to .500 on the season as they head into the Christmas break.
Jessup will be back at Warrior Arena on Saturday, January 3, to host the University of Hawaii-Hilo. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:30 PM. Fans can purchase tickets at jessupathletics.com/tickets.
