SYLVANIA, OH. — The IU Columbus Crimson Pride delivered one of their most efficient offensive performances of the season but came up short in an 101–81 loss at Lourdes University on Tuesday night inside the Lourdes REC.
IU Columbus shot an impressive 62.3% from the field and 58.8% from three-point range, connecting on 10 triples, but Lourdes' balanced scoring, defensive pressure, and ability to control tempo proved decisive.
The Gray Wolves jumped out early, scoring 50 first-half points to take a 50-37 lead at the break. IU Columbus responded with improved rhythm in the second half, putting up 44 points after halftime, but Lourdes matched the effort with 51 of its own to keep control throughout.
Graduate student, Trevin Lieck led all Crimson Pride scorers with 23 points on 10-of-14 shooting, adding seven rebounds and two blocks in 36 minutes. Lieck also knocked down three three-pointers, continuing his strong offensive stretch.
Damontae Thompson added 16 points, four assists, and a steal, while Jayden Broadnax chipped in 10 points, five rebounds, and a block on an efficient 3-for-4 shooting night. Jermayn Baxter provided a spark inside with nine points, three assists, and two steals in just 18 minutes.
Off the bench, LaRenzo Hopkins scored six points in eight minutes, and Eric Jackson contributed eight points and six rebounds, helping IU Columbus stay competitive on the glass. The Crimson Pride finished with 33 total rebounds and 15 assists.
Lourdes was paced by Derek Fairley (23 points) and Adonus Abrams (21 points), with the duo combining for 13 assists and shooting over 60% from the field. The Gray Wolves also forced 24 IUC turnovers, turning defensive pressure into transition opportunities.
Despite the loss, IU Columbus showed encouraging offensive efficiency and ball movement against one of the top teams in the region. The Crimson Pride will look to build on that shooting performance as they prepare for the next stretch of the schedule.
Next Up: The Crimson Pride return home for a men's and women's double-header to open up River States Conference play on Saturday (Jan. 3). Both teams will face off against Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. The men's game will tip-off at approx. 3:00 PM.
