San Dimas, California- The past three outings have been tough ones for Menlo Men's Basketball. Their last three defeats have all been within five points and down to the last few possessions. In Dimas, California the Oaks not only got back in the win column but also found some offensive momentum. Four different Oaks scored in double figures and the team hit 53% of their field goal attempts.
On top of efficient shot making the Oaks continue to dominate on the glass. They out rebounded the Warriors 45-26 as well as pulling down 20 offensive boards. Menlo continues to outwork the opposition on the backboards as they rank first in offensive rebounds per game and second in total rebounds per game in the GSAC. When shots are falling and Menlo is crashing the glass, coach Rooney's squad is tough to beat.
Individually, freshman Braydon Iuli continues to play well in Patarick Ryan's absence. The New Zealand native scored a team high 16 points. Iuli has also taken on playmaking and ball handling duties for the Oaks. After adding five more assists and zero turnovers today he is now up to 14 assists to only five turnovers in his last six outings.
Jake Tranter would turn in his best effort of the season in 15 minutes off the bench. Tranter posted a season high 10 points on 75% shooting from the floor. He added two rebounds and knocked down all three of his free throws. A welcome sight as the Oaks struggled from the line in this one.
Lastly, Corey Le'aupepe returned to the starting lineup for the Oaks. In just 15 minutes the veteran forward made his presence felt. He scored 14 points, knocked down a three and went a perfect 5-5 from the field. Le'aupepe also helped set the tone with his intensity as a rebounder. He grabbed eight boards, four of them on the offensive side of the ball. The senior is now closing in on his 1000 career points as he looks to join some of the premier players in Menlo history!
This type of dominant performance could just be what the doctor ordered. Menlo now returns to Haynes-Prim Pavilion for a three game homestand. There is plenty of parity in the GSAC standings with the conference tournament coming up. A strong finish to this season could be imperative to seeding. With that said, Menlo is back on the floor Saturday, February 4th against Jessup University.
