Photo: Frankie Debari
BY: ANDREW HALE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Senior guard Chance Moore had a game-high 18 points in his St. Bonaventure men’s basketball debut, leading the Bonnies to a 70-56 victory over California State University, Northridge Monday night in the Reilly Center.
Moore, a transfer from Missouri State, didn’t start in Bonaventure’s exhibition against Alfred. However, Moore replaced junior guard Jaxon Edwards in the starting lineup against CSUN.
Head coach Mark Schmidt said he’s confident in Moore’s ability to be effective.
“[Moore] has a chance to be a good player,” Schmidt said. “He just got to continue to work and really play hard 100%. When he plays, he’s really good. He just has to be able to keep up that effort consistently.”
Moore finished the game with nine rebounds, three assists and two steals. The senior guard said he felt the energy from the fans throughout his first game in the RC.
“It was a great atmosphere,” Moore said. “It just felt great. Having that energy, having that excitement [every time] we make a big play. [When] everyone’s cheering for you, that makes us want to play harder.”
The Bonnies’ rough shooting performance against Alfred carried over to the first half against CSUN as Bonaventure shot 12-33 from the field.
While shooting 36% from field goal range and 22% from three, the Bonnies entered halftime leading 31-20.
In the second half, the Bonnies shot an identical 36% from the field, however, the team relied on points off turnovers and getting to the free-throw line to remain in front of the Matadors.
The Bonnies’ defense forced 21 Matador turnovers while scoring an equal 21 points of those turnovers.
“We’re not a great half-court offensive team right now,” Schmidt said. Hopefully, we can have enough guys to keep the defense honest, but I thought our athleticism, our length really benefited us tonight.”
The Bonnies also shot 34 free throws, making 23 of them.
For the Matadors, Preseason All-Big West member and senior forward Keonte Jones finished with a team-high 16 points, shooting 45% from the field.
Junior guard Lajae Jones, a transfer from Barton Community College, made three of the Bonnies’ seven total 3-pointers. Jones finished with 16 points.
“I thought Lajae Jones making those threes really helped and gave him some confidence,” said Schmidt.
The Bonnies travel to Buffalo, New York, to take on Little Three rival Canisius Saturday at 4 p.m.
halea22@bonaventure.edu
