The Master’s University was within striking distance of a win, but eventually fell to NCAA Division 1 Long Beach State 97-78 Monday night on the road in TMU’s final exhibition of the season.
At the end of the first half, the visiting Mustangs, who are off to a 9-2 start to the season, only trailed by 13 points and were outscored by just six points in the second half.
But the 49ers’ scoring depth prevailed, outshooting TMU 62 percent to 45 percent in addition to scoring 48 points off the bench as compared to TMU’s 14.
Reid Shackelford made 8-of-15 shots on the night, 6-of-12 from behind the arc, on his way to 24 points, which tied him for most in the game with LBSU’s Justin Bibbins. TMU’s Travis Yenor was the second-highest scorer with 18 points.
Lawrence Russell led TMU in both rebounds and assists with four and six, respectively.
“We competed at a very high level and that builds confidence,” Shackelford said after the game via text message. “We’re looking forward to seeing what we can do in (the Golden State Athletic Conference) when we get back from break.”
The Mustangs continue play on Dec. 29 at home against UC Merced in the New Year’s Classic tournament.
