Atherton, CA-In their conference opener Menlo Men's Basketball faced off against the NAIA's 10th ranked team in conference rival the Arizona Christian Firestorm. Both teams came into this game with double digit wins during their non-conference schedule and were looking to pick up their first conference victory of the year. It was a back and forth affair with the lead changing seven times and neither team exceeding a six point lead. Unfortunately, the Oaks would fall by four points but there are positives to take away from a tightly contested battle.
Nick High Continues to Breakout in Sophomore Season
Sophomore forward Nick High came into this season ready to make his mark on this Menlo basketball program. He spent hours upon hours in the gym during the offseason and today was a culmination of that hard work. Not only did he score a game high 17 points but he played with an intensity that showed up across the game, not just when scoring the ball. He grabbed nine rebounds, six of which were offensive. He was relentless on the glass constantly fighting through defenders in pursuit of the ball. He also added some playmaking to his boxscore with three assists and did not commit a single turnover. High has been lights out from three this season and despite not finding the range from three, he still shot a solid 47% from the field including some tough finishes through contact. The Nick High breakout continues and fans of Menlo hoops should enjoy the show!
Landon Seaman Builds On His Dominant Campaign
Landon Seaman was coming off arguably his worst outing of the 2023-2024 season after the team's victory over UC Merced on December 30th. He made sure to dig deep and get back to his impactful ways with a 17 point, 11 rebound double-double. All game long ACU sent double teams at the 6'8 big man and regardless he played with poise and control. Early in the game he was held to four points as he took it upon himself to move the ball and avoid the constant pressure in the post. Yet, with the Oaks needing their team captain in the second half, Seaman responded with 13 points, seven rebounds and 5-7 shooting in the second period of play. While the outcome was not what he was hoping for, the big man in the middle is proving that he is one of the best at what he does.
Up Next…
The Oaks may not have won the battle against ACU but they had players step up and make plays when it mattered. The team was dominant on the glass winning the rebounding battle 40-25 while also forcing 14 turnovers. The boys will be back in action this Saturday against the OUAZ Spirit. Last season the teams split their two game series with Menlo winning on the road but falling in a tight matchup inside Haynes-Prim Pavilion. Coach Rooney's squad will be looking for a bit of revenge this Saturday at 2 PM.
