By Andrew Preston
The Trojans (1-0) defeated Midway University (0-4) 81-52 late Saturday afternoon in an exhibition match-up at the Trojan Fieldhouse.
The Trojans got off to a hot start scoring the game’s first 13 points.
The game began with junior guard, Jarvis Jones sinking back to back three pointers for the home team. After that the Trojans took a 10-0 lead before causing first year coach of the Midway Eagles, Joe Krupinski, to call timeout.
The Eagles were unable to get the ball past the Trojans stifling defense until Bryson Harris hit a three pointer to get his team on the scoreboard around the 16:00 mark.
Shot after shot seemingly went down for the Trojans (54% for the game) after their opponent scored. The Trojans didn’t concede another point until nearly another eight minutes of action had passed. Brandon Johnson made one of his two free throw opportunities to trim the Trojans lead to 29-4.
An exciting play for the Trojans happened with 5:45 left in the half as freshman Donavan Henry came from behind to force a steal allowing him to put in an uncontested layup. That play extended the Trojans lead to 31-4.
It’s that kind of play that head coach Sam Harris wants to see from his team, no matter the situation or score.
The Trojans extended their lead to 36-7 when Jones converted a tough shot and drew a foul. He made his free throw and gave even more momentum to the home crowd of over 900. Donovan Donaldson got the assist on the play.
The Trojans were led in the first half by Devin Whitfield (12 points, 2 rebounds), Donovan Donaldson (10 points, 1 rebounds) and Jarvis Jones (8 points, 4 rebounds).
The Trojans took a 47-13 lead going into halftime.
In the second half the Eagles were able to make several adjustments scoring much sooner in the half at 17:50.
The second half of action was marked with several key plays, but maybe non more exciting that a breakaway slam dunk by Donaldson with 17:11 to go in the half. Donaldson got an outlet pass from Jones then slammed the ball home to give the Trojans a 52-18 advantage.
The Trojans were led by Devin Whitfield with a game high 22 points. Brandon Maxwell led the Eagles in scoring with 12.
The Trojans embark on a three game road trip and will return to the Trojan Fieldhouse Nov. 19 to face the University of Findlay.