Panthers Open IEAC Play with Hard-Fought Road Setback to MSJC

The Chaffey College men's basketball team opened Inland Empire Athletic Conference play on Saturday afternoon, falling 108-98 to Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) on the road. In a fast-paced, high-scoring matchup defined by efficient perimeter shooting, interior scoring and long offensive stretches on both sides, the Panthers battled throughout but were unable to slow the Eagles' late surge.

Chaffey came out strong offensively, shooting 54.1 percent from the field in the first half and knocking down six three-pointers to take a 51-49 halftime lead. Colin Ingram powered the early attack with 10 first-half points, while Christian Walton and Kameron Gardner provided steady scoring on the perimeter. Kajuan Thomas set the tone inside, helping Chaffey match MSJC on the glass through the opening 20 minutes.

The second half shifted in favor of the Eagles, who shot an exceptional 64.5 percent from the field while connecting on six threes after the break. MSJC capitalized on interior touches and timely late-clock scoring, outscoring the Panthers 59-47 to take control. Despite Chaffey's continued efficiency and finishing the night at 50 percent from the field, the Eagles' ability to score in the paint (42 points) and convert at the foul line (23 made free throws) proved decisive.

Ingram delivered one of his strongest performances of the season, finishing with 20 points on 6-for-11 shooting, including three made threes, while adding six rebounds and a block in 34 minutes. Avery Garcia posted 16 points on 4-for-7 shooting and knocked down seven free throws while adding five rebounds and four assists in one of his most productive all-around performances of the season. Gardner posted 14 points, four rebounds, four assists and a steal, providing stability on both ends. Walton also contributed 14 points, six rebounds and a steal while shooting 5-for-11 from the field.

Thomas added eight points and six rebounds, while Logan Jereczek provided an efficient spark off the bench with eight points on 3-for-4 shooting, including two threes. Brian Smith rounded out the double-figure scorers with 12 points, four rebounds and two assists, continuing his consistent backcourt play.

As a team, Chaffey shot 50 percent from the field, 41.4 percent from beyond the arc and 80 percent at the free-throw line while producing 30 bench points and 12 second-chance points. MSJC countered with 56.1 percent shooting overall, 42.3 percent from three and a 35-34 edge on the boards, using late-game execution to seal the conference-opening win.

Chaffey will now turn its attention to the next IEAC matchup on the road against San Bernardino Valley College on Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m.