REC CENTER — Jump shots were off, layups wouldn’t drop, and even the crowd seemed a little off its game. All the misses contributed to a 25 percent shooting performance from the Peregrines in the first half, while the Fighting Saints singed the nets hitting 60 percent, including six from the 3-point stripe and leading to an 84-61 nonconference loss.

Both offenses struggled through the first 10 minutes until Saints guard Derek Ciezczak hit a 3-pointer that opened the University of Saint Francis (2-1) lead to 18-6. USF’s offense heated up for the rest of the first half outscoring the Peregrines 24-14 heading into halftime with a 42-20 lead.

The Peregrines (0-3) shot selection improved in the second half hitting 57 percent, including a pair of 3-pointers. But the deficit from the first 20 minutes was too great for a comeback.

Senior Vince Johnson (Bishop Noll) led the Peregrines with 19 points, five rebounds and a pair of shot blocks. Johnson is averaging 12 points per game in the first three contests.

Sophomore Michael Patton (West Side) had the hottest hand hitting 71 percent for 15 points, which included two 3-pointers.  Patton also had six rebounds, three steals and two shot blocks.

Sophomore Justin Latimore (Indianapolis North Central) finished with 11 points and four rebounds.

Purdue University Calumet’s men’s and women’s basketball teams host Bethel College in an evening doubleheader Nov. 18. The women tip at 5 p.m. and the men approximately at 7 p.m.

Box Score: http://www.ccacsports.com/stats/2008-09/MIIBKB/pucg03.htm