PLNU was dealt a tough loss Saturday night, with missed opportunities in the final minutes resulting in a 57-55 loss to Trevecca Nazarene, at the sister school's homecoming in Nashville. The Sea Lions had the lead for much of second half, but it was the Trojans emerging victorious in front of a capacity home crowd.
 
After trailing 29-23 at halftime, PLNU began to gain momentum, eventually tying the game at 38 with less than 11 minutes to go. A bucket by freshman forward Todd Campbell put the Sea Lions ahead with 9:26 remaining, and the Sea Lions extended that lead to as many as five, when Greg Murray completed a three-point play with 7:44 to play.
 
But the Sea Lions were unable to hang on, plagued by poor shooting from both the line and beyond the arc. TNU's Matt Elliot, the star of the night, hit a three with 2:08 remaining to put his team back on top by two.
 
The Sea Lions were back within one, after converting one of two free throws to make the score 56-55 TNU with 47 seconds left. TNU gave PLNU plenty of chances, as the Trojans missed five free throws in the final 36 seconds. However the Sea Lions were unable to capitalize, turning the ball over and missing a three on the final possession.

The Trojans (1-0) benefited from a great shooting night by Elliot, who led the team with 24 points, which included 5-of-6 from long range. Michael France added 14 points in the win.
 
The Sea Lions received another good effort from Murray, who led the team with 15 points. James Hancock gave the team a 13-point, 12-rebound double-double, and Rhett Beal led all players with 14 boards.
 
Unfortunately, the Sea Lions were just 1-for-14 from three-point range and shot 58 percent from the line. PLNU also turned the ball over 22 times in the loss.
 
PLNU (1-1) returns to action this Tuesday, when they travel to San Diego State for an exhibition.

-Jeremiah Wood