ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands – Four Bulldogs scored in double figures as the Yale men's basketball team shot an impressive 63% from the field (34–of–54) and a flawless 100% (21-of–21) at the free-throw line to edge the Akron Zips, 97–94, in a thrilling Paradise Jam championship game, securing the tournament title.
After the game,
Nick Townsend was named the Paradise Jam MVP. The senior averaged 22.0 points per game, shooting 23-for-41 from the field, 6-for-10 from three, and 14-for-17 at the free-throw line. He also posted 6.7 rebounds per game and totaled 18 assists throughout the tournament.
Turning Point
After Akron rallied to tie the game at 80 with 5:02 remaining,
Trevor Mullin answered with a three-pointer to reclaim the lead for the Bulldogs.
Riley Fox followed with back-to-back threes to push Yale ahead 89–84, though the Zips responded with a triple of their own to stay within striking distance. Townsend added a layup, but Akron countered again to make it 91–89. From there, Mullin knocked down six clutch free throws, going 6-for-6 at the line to seal the victory and put the game out of reach.
Notable Performances
- Isaac Celiscar had a standout performance, scoring 23 points on 8-of-9 shooting, including a perfect 7-of-7 from the free throw line, and added two assists. He contributed 12 of his points in the first half.
- Townsend tallied 21 points on 8-of-14 shooting, went 4-of-4 from the free throw line, and recorded 10 assists along with six rebounds.
- Fox contributed 14 points on 5-of-8 shooting.
- Mullin scored 12 points, going a perfect 6-of-6 from the free throw line, and added two assists, with nine of his points coming in the second half.
- Samson Aletan chipped in eight points on 3-of-3 shooting and grabbed five rebounds.
- The Bulldogs shot a blistering 72% overall (18-of-25) in the second half.
Bulldog Notes
- Townsend has scored in double digits in all seven of the team's opening games.
- Townsend's 10 assists set a new career high.
- Celiscar recorded a career-high 23 points.
- Yale contributed 26 points from the bench.
- The Bulldogs are 2-0 against Akron, winning consecutive matchups.
- Yale reached 97 points for the third time this season.
Hear from Coach Jones
"I thought our guys were really connected. They played hard together, and they wanted it. Akron is a very difficult opponent, and they went out and did the best they could on each and every possession. I'm proud of their effort."
Up Next
The Bulldogs will head to Vermont on Sunday, Nov. 30. Tip-off is slated for 2 p.m.
