NEW HAVEN, Conn. -- The Yale men's basketball team started its 2024-25 campaign off on a high note, taking down Quinnipiac 88-62 on Monday evening at Lee Amphitheater. The Bulldogs have now won their season opener for the sixth consecutive season.
Yale improved to 1-0 overall, while the Bobcats fell to 0-1.
Statistical Leaders
It was a balanced attack for the Bulldogs, with four players tallying double-digit point totals.
John Poulakidas led the way with 19 points, hitting a trio of three-pointers. First year
Isaac Celiscar had an outstanding collegiate debut, recording 18 points while shooting 6-of-8 from the floor. He also was efficient on the glass, grabbing eight rebounds, including five on the offensive end.
Bez Mbeng totaled a game-high eight assists while adding 17 points of his own. Nick Towsend also reached double figures with 14 points. Amarri Monroe tallied 23 points for the Bobcats.
Key Stats
Yale dominated Quinnipiac on the boards and in the paint. The Bulldogs nearly doubled the rebounding output of the Bobcats, collecting 50 total rebounds compared to 27 from the visitors. Yale also outscored Quinnipiac 40-18 in points in the paint.
Turning Point
The Bulldogs only trailed within the first two minutes of the game when Quinnipiac took a 5-2 lead. Following a pair of free throws from Mbeng and a three-pointer from Townsend, the Elis went on a 14-0 run to grab the lead for good. The Bobcats cut the lead to five with just over five minutes remaining in the first half, but Yale outscored its opponent 58-36 for the remainder of the contest.
Quoting Jones
"This was a really good win for our program," said
James Jones, The Joel E. Smilow, Class of 1954 Head Coach of the Bulldogs. "I was very impressed with the way we started the game and it's a great compliment when the other team has to switch to zone because they were having trouble guarding man-to-man. We did a really good job of sharing the ball and we grabbed 50 rebounds tonight, which was the difference in the game."
Game Notes
- The Bulldogs improved to 3-1 against Quinnipiac since 2014.
- Yale's depth was a major factor with 33 points coming off the bench.
- Yale has won 11 straight home openers dating back to 2012.
- Celiscar led all players with eight rebounds.
- Mbeng was effective from the line, knocking down 10-of-12 free throws.
What's Next?
The Bulldogs will travel to Chicago for a matchup with UIC on Friday, Nov. 8 at 7:00 PM CST/8:00 PM EST.
