By Nathan Deen
Published on November 7, 2007
PJC lost their first game in the West Plains Tournament on Thursday night to Missouri State University by a score of 96-69. PJC head coach Paul Swanson said that the score did not indicate the intensity of the game.
The Pirates led at half time by four points and maintained that lead all the way to the 10-minute mark. Swanson said his team played 30 outstanding minutes and completely collapsed during the last 10. Missouri State went on three big runs to close the game.
Swanson has yet to get a full consistent game out of his team so far this season. Whether at the beginning or the end, PJC has stumbled at some point during each game. Swanson was disappointed with the loss knowing PJC had played so well up until the last 10 minutes.
Missouri State guard Devon Peltier was a big factor in the game with 32 points and hit 10 three-pointers, including six in the second half.
Forward Petras Balocka led PJC with 20 points and 9 rebounds and was 9/11 from the free throw line. Guard Sasha Parghalava had 14 points and was 3/8 from the three-point line. Guard Jerome Burgos also scored in double figures with 10 points.
Forward Jalin Thomas suffered lower back spasms and was unable to play. He is listed as doubtful for Friday’s game against Kishwaukee Community College.