ROCKLIN, Calif. – Jessup University Men's Basketball (7-8, 4-5 PacWest) saw a halftime lead slip away on Saturday afternoon, falling to Concordia University Irvine (9-7, 6-4 PacWest) inside Warrior Arena, 77-81. 

Despite a dominant first-half performance where the Warriors shot over 60% from the floor, a late surge by the Golden Eagles and a disparity in points off turnovers proved to be the difference.

The Warriors came out firing in the opening frame, led by Cayden McDaniel and Tom Parsons. Jessup headed into the locker room with a 43-39 lead, fueled by a blistering 14-of-23 (60.9%) shooting display. McDaniel was perfect from the charity stripe, finishing the game 8-of-8, while Parsons provided a massive spark off the bench.

Jessup extended their lead to nine points early in the second half following a McDaniel triple and a fast-break layup from Varick Lewis. However, Concordia began to chip away, utilizing a 23-12 advantage in points off turnovers to regain momentum.

A late 50% shooting effort from CUI in the second half, combined with 22 points from Macarhy Morris, allowed the Golden Eagles to overtake the Warriors in the closing minutes. Jessup dominated the paint 42-30 and won the rebounding battle 32-23, but it wasn't enough to withstand Concordia's execution down the stretch.

Leading the way for Jessup was Cayden McDaniel, who poured in 21 points on 6-of-9 shooting while remaining perfect at the free-throw line. Tom Parsons provided a major lift off the bench with 16 points and three rebounds, while Andre Norris stuffed the stat sheet with 13 points, four boards, and a team-high four steals. Aleksandar Mitrovic also contributed seven points and a pair of assists in the effort.

Jessup will look to bounce back as they head on the road to face Fresno Pacific University on Tuesday, Jan. 20. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:15 PM. The Warriors will return to Rocklin on Jan. 22 to host Menlo College.

Tickets for all upcoming home games can be purchased HERE.