The Bluejays jumped out to an early first half lead, opening up a commanding 16-6 lead with 11:45 to play. The Bluejays ran their lead to 19 points in the first half, carrying a 36-17 lead into the locker room at halftime. For the half, Elmhurst shot 13-of-30 from the floor (43.3 percent) and 4-of-12 from 3-point range (33.3 percent). Greenville hit just 34.8 percent of its shots in the first half (8-of-23) and did not attempt a 3-pointer.
Greenville picked up the offensive production in the second half, outshooting Elmhurst 62.5 percent (15-of-24) to 41.7 percent (10-of-24). Still, it wasn’t enough to overcome the 19-point halftime deficit. Elmhurst brought home the win with a 74-58 final score.
For the game, the Bluejays shot 42.6 percent from the floor (23-of-54) and 44 percent from 3-point range (11-of-25). Greenville hit 23-of-47 shots from the floor (48.9 percent) and 42.9 percent from 3-point range (3-of-7).
The Bluejays controlled the glass, outrebounding the Panthers 35-25.
Elmhurst was led by Christ Martin’s 18 points and 11 rebounds. Evan Patchett hit 5-of-8 shots, including three 3-pointers to finish with 15 points. Chris Ihlenfeldt came off the bench to finish with 14 points. David Gershenzon chipped in nine points.
Greenville was led by Scott Foster’s 17 points. Bryson Taylor added 13 points. Brandon Martin added nine points and five rebounds.
Elmhurst opens CCIW play on Wednesday, January 5, when they host Carthage College at 7:30 p.m.