Contact: Clark Teuscher, Sports Information Director, 630-637-5302

ELMHURST, Ill. (Jan. 4, 2025) - Falling behind after enduring an early three-point shooting barrage, the North Central College men's basketball team was dealt a second consecutive loss Saturday, 80-66, to Elmhurst University at R.A. Faganel Hall.

The hosts connected on 7 of their first 10 shots from beyond the arc and led by as many as 21 points in the first half as the Cardinals (9-4, 2-2 College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin) never found an opening to stage a comeback.

North Central made three of its first four shots as an inside jumper by Tyler Swierczek and five straight points from Ethan Helwig led to an early 7-5 advantage. The Bluejays' Tagen Pearson countered with a three-pointer, then made two more as the hosts moved in front, 16-8.

The visitors got a three from Swierczek to cut into the lead, but missed eight of their next nine shots while Elmhurst (6-7, 2-2 CCIW) extended its advantage to double digits. The hosts stayed in front by at least 12 points the rest of the way.

James Bullock Jr. led the Cardinals with 14 points and seven rebounds in 28 minutes off the bench, scoring in double figures for the second time in three games. Terrance Moncrief put up 11 points and Swierczek put up 10. Pearson and Dominic Trelenberg paced Elmhurst with 18 points apiece.

North Central plays its first home game of 2025 Wednesday, hosting Wheaton College (3-9, 0-3). Tipoff at Gregory Arena is set for 7:00 p.m. Click HERE for the full 2024-2025 schedule and live coverage options.

Download the free North Central Cardinals app, available for iOS and Android devices, to receive up-to-the-minute news, scores, and updates on your favorite North Central teams. Click HERE for more information.