Lima, Ohio — The road trip to Lima, Ohio, to take on UNOH at "The Garage" is a grueling four-hour journey each way. However, Head Coach Ryan Bertoia refused to let travel or any other factor serve as an excuse for his team's performance. The Saints struggled to find their rhythm and fell 89-71 to the Racers on Saturday.

UNOH 89, Aquinas 71

Aquinas had an uncharacteristically tough day from beyond the arc, going 0-for-15 from three-point range. Shooting woes extended beyond the perimeter, as the Saints hit just 39% from the field, compared to UNOH's 51% shooting performance. Bench production also played a key role in the outcome, with the Racers' reserves contributing 27 points, while the Saints managed just eight.

Despite the loss, Aquinas won the rebounding battle 40-37 and had strong performances from Devon Boyd (26 points, 3 assists), Terrance Jones (20 points, 9 rebounds, 1 steal), and Caden Pokorzynski (11 points, 7 rebounds).

The game was tightly contested through the first ten minutes, with Aquinas trailing 17-15 before UNOH took control. A 12-3 run helped the Racers build a 40-33 halftime lead, and AQ could not close the gap in the second half.

Coach's Take

Head Coach Ryan Bertoia expressed his disappointment in the team's defensive performance, "We didn't take pride in our one-on-one defense today. Our communication, intensity, and attention to detail on the defensive end were poor. We allowed UNOH to get wherever they wanted on the court all game long."

By the Numbers

• Devon Boyd: Game-high 26 points and 3 assists
• Terrance Jones: One rebound shy of a double-double (20 points, 9 boards)
• Off the Bench: The Saints managed just 8 points, with Jack Futa contributing six

Up Next

Aquinas returns home to the Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center on Wednesday for a crucial WHAC conference match-up against Concordia. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m., or 30 minutes after the conclusion of the women's game. Wednesday's game will also feature a tribute to Black History Month.