Red Devils Stumble Against D1 SIUE
| Final | 1 | 2 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Eureka (2-7,1-2 SLIAC) | 28 | 24 | 52 |
|
SIUE (7-4,0-0 OVC) | 50 | 50 | 100 |
EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. - The Eureka men's basketball team lost to Division I SIUE, 100-52, on Sunday at First Community Arena
The first half began with SIUE taking an early lead, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Ring Malith assisted by Brian Taylor. The Red Devils' Raymond Bandzoumouna Jr. (Lisle, Ill./Lisle) responded with a 3-pointer to tie the game at 3-3. SIUE then went on a scoring run, with Ray'Sean Taylor hitting a fast-break 3-pointer at 16-8, contributing to SIUE's eventual lead. SIUE capitalized on fast breaks and turnovers, with Kyle Thomas and Desmond Polk adding quick points to extend their lead to 50-28 by the end of the half. SIUE's offense was further supported by their efficient 3-point shooting, as they made 10 of 21 attempts from beyond the arc, compared to the Red Devils' 6 of 17.
During the second half of play, SIUE extended their lead over visiting Eureka with a strong offensive performance. SIUE opened the half with a 3-pointer by Ring Malith, setting the tone for a dominant stretch. SIUE's Desmond Polk and Brian Taylor contributed significantly, with Polk hitting a 3-pointer and Taylor assisting on multiple plays. The Red Devils struggled with turnovers, committing nine in the half, while SIUE capitalized on fast breaks and bench contributions to outscore the Red Devils 50-24 in the half. Jordan Pickett was instrumental in the latter stages, converting multiple free throws and a late 3-pointer to solidify SIUE's lead.
Raymond Bandzoumouna Jr. was a standout for the Red Devils with 10 points, leading the team in scoring. He also contributed three rebounds and three assists. Sam DeJesus (Delavan, Ill./Delavan) added eight points, making two of his four 3-point attempts. Ben Carter (Morton, Ill./Morton) was active with four points and one assist, while also securing two rebounds.
UP NEXT
Eureka's (2-7, 1-2) next game is against Monmouth (6-2, 2-0) on Dec. 18, at 6 p.m in Monmouth, Ill. Following their recent loss, the Red Devils will be looking to bounce back on the road.