Crusaders Defeated by Centenary

IRVING, Texas - The University of Dallas men's basketball team lost their conference match with Centenary College 72-51 on Friday.  They fall to 9-12 overall on the year and 3-9 in conference play.

The Crusaders went toe-to-toe with Centenary for much of the game, but especially in the first half.  The lead bounced back and forth a handful of times in the early minutes, neither team willing to let the other take hold of the game.  For a three minute stretch they clung to a lead until Centenary put themselves on top 14-12, only for Dallas to answer right back and tie it up.

From there the Gents seemed to find a new gear and the Crusaders were left chasing the rest of the way, though they kept themselves within striking distance.  At the intensity with which they were playing, the 15-point deficit at halftime felt well within reach for Dallas.

Though they were able to cool off the red hot Centenary offense in the second half, the Gents never let up on the defensive side of the ball.  The Crusaders struggled to control the ball and finish, both at the rim and from deep, and only went to the free throw line twice in the entire second half.  The result was the Gents gradually building on their lead and completing the season sweep.

Marcus Juarez led the team with 17 points and shared the rebound lead with Letrell Toussaint, the pair both grabbing eight boards.  Toussaint was second on the team with 14 points on the night.

Up Next

The Crusaders wrap up their 2022-23 home campaign on Saturday, as they host St. Thomas for their final home conference match of the season.  Tip-off is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.