Josh Nickelberry’s career-high 28 points carry La Salle past Holy Cross, 84-65
Nickelberry hit 10 of 18 shots, including four three-pointers, and grabbed eight rebounds.
After recent lopsided losses to Villanova (72-46) and Temple (73-57), no one would have blamed La Salle if it played a bit lackadaisical against Holy Cross on Saturday.
But thanks to Josh Nickelberry’s career-high 28 points, the Explorers (3-4) turned in a dominating performance in an 84-65 win over the Crusaders (2-7) at Tom Gola Arena.
Coming into the season, Nickelberry, a junior transfer from Louisville, carried a high profile. He dropped 22 points in the season opener, an 86-81 overtime loss to Sacred Heart, but then suffered a fairly sharp decline.
Against Holy Cross, his shooting form returned, making 10 of 18 shots including four three-pointers. The 6-4 guard also grabbed eight rebounds.
Clifton Moore pitched in with 15 points and five blocks for La Salle. Teammates Jhamir Brickus added 10 points, while Christian Ray had 12 rebounds.
The Explorers also turned in a strong defensive game. The teams ended the first half tied, 37-37, but La Salle outscored Holy Cross in the second, 47-28.
Gerrale Gates had 10 points and 12 rebounds to lead Holy Cross. R.J. Johnson and Judson Martindale both scored 10.
Next up for La Salle are home against Fairleigh Dickinson on Tuesday and Penn on Saturday.