Erie, Pa-The Mercyhurst Lakers men's basketball team embarks on their first West Coast road trip of the season, facing three formidable opponents. The Lakers (4-3) aim to bounce back from their recent loss at Air Force and build momentum during this challenging stretch.

Upcoming Games:

• Wednesday, November 27, 2024
  Opponent: University of California
  Time: 10:00 PM
  Location: Haas Pavilion, Berkeley, CA
• Saturday, November 30, 2024
  Opponent: Sacramento State
  Time: 8:00 PM
  Location: The Nest, Sacramento, CA
• Sunday, December 1, 2024
  Opponent: University of San Francisco
  Time: 7:00 PM
  Location: War Memorial Gymnasium, San Francisco, CA

 
Lakers' Season Overview:
The Lakers have shown flashes of brilliance, especially at home, where they are unbeaten at 3-0. However, their 1-3 road record highlights the challenge of playing in unfamiliar territory. Mercyhurst's balanced offensive approach is led by standout players Jeff Planutis (14.7 PPG, .459 FG%) and Aidan Reichert (11.3 PPG, .534 FG%), while the team continues to refine its defensive intensity and rebounding efforts.

Scouting the Opponents:
University of California (Cal):
Cal, a member of the ACC, boasts a strong roster featuring athleticism and depth.

• Team Overview: Cal emphasizes a fast-paced offense and relentless defensive pressure. Their size and physicality inside could challenge Mercyhurst's rebounding efforts.

Sacramento State:
The Hornets, competing in the Big Sky Conference, excel in methodical, grind-it-out basketball.

• Key Players:
  • Zach Chappell – A sharpshooting guard who can score in bunches.
  • Akila Gibbs – A strong interior presence with the ability to alter shots and secure rebounds.
• Team Overview: Sacramento State's disciplined approach often limits opponents' possessions, making efficiency on offense critical for the Lakers.

 
University of San Francisco (USF):
The Dons, a perennial contender in the West Coast Conference, present a tough final challenge on this road trip.

• Key Players:
  • Tyrell Roberts – A high-volume scorer who thrives in transition and from beyond the arc.
  • Zane Meeks – A versatile big man with scoring and rebounding prowess.
• Team Overview: USF combines experience and a deep bench to maintain high energy throughout games. Their ability to spread the floor with shooters will test Mercyhurst's perimeter defense.

 
Keys to Success:

1. Rebounding Resilience: The Lakers have been out-rebounded in several games this season, averaging 29.4 RPG compared to opponents' 33.1 RPG. Matching the physicality of these West Coast teams will be critical.
2. Efficient Shooting: Mercyhurst shoots .430 from the field but only .292 from three. Improving long-range efficiency could help break through tough defensive schemes.
3. Defensive Intensity: The Lakers force 17 turnovers per game, and maintaining this defensive pressure could disrupt the flow of these well-coached teams.

 
Fan Information:
Fans can follow all three games via live streaming on the respective team websites and updates on the Mercyhurst Athletics social media platforms.