The Eastern Michigan University men’s basketball team suffered its second season loss on Saturday, falling 71-63 to Cleveland State University. The Eagles’ record now stands at 2-2 for the 2024-25 season.
Despite leading by as many as six points early in the game, 14-8, EMU couldn't maintain their momentum. The Eagles held the lead for a significant portion of the first half, but were ultimately outscored in both halves by the Vikings. Cleveland State took the first half 37-33 and won the second half 34-30 to secure the victory.
First-Half Struggles
EMU led 24-22 with seven minutes remaining in the first half, but Cleveland State responded with a dominant 17-9 run to close the half, giving the Vikings a four-point advantage heading into the break.
Late-Game Turnaround Falls Short
Cleveland State extended their lead to nine points, 55-46, with just over 11 minutes to play in the second half. However, the Eagles regained momentum, going on a run that saw them take a 61-59 lead with four minutes remaining. Unfortunately, this would be one of EMU's final scoring moments as the Vikings closed the game on a decisive 12-2 run to secure the win.
The 63 points scored by EMU mark the most they’ve tallied in a loss since Feb. 20, 2024, when they put up 69 points in a road game against Buffalo.
Standout Performances
Jalen Terry (Flint, Michigan/Beecher/Oregon/DePaul) shined for the Eagles, finishing with a game-high 25 points. This marks his second consecutive game, scoring 25 or more points, following a 28-point performance in his last outing. Terry also contributed four rebounds, two assists, and two blocks.
Christian Henry (Chicago, Illinois/The Skill Factory/Panola College) and Jalin Billingsley (Cleveland, Ohio/Lutheran East/Georgetown) also performed well, scoring 13 points. Henry shot 5-for-9 from the field and added six assists, while Billingsley made six of 12 shots and led the team with five rebounds.
Team Stats
Outside the trio of Terry, Henry, and Billingsley, the rest of the Eagles combined for just 12 points. Despite their scoring struggles, EMU outrebounded Cleveland State 34-29, with 10 of the 11 Eagles who played collecting at least one rebound.
Up Next
The Eagles will look to bounce back as they face the Oakland Golden Grizzlies on Thursday, Nov. 21, in Rochester, Michigan. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m., and the game will be streamed on ESPN+. Fans can also listen to live radio coverage on WEMU 89.1 FM.
