Milwaukee City Wire

Kentrell Pullian's performance was pivotal in Milwaukee's men's basketball team securing an 80-74 win over Duquesne at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse. The Panthers, now 2-2 for the season, managed to hold off the Dukes with key plays in the final moments of the game.

Pullian scored a season-high 22 points and added seven rebounds, contributing significantly during a crucial 15-5 run that helped Milwaukee maintain their lead. His efforts were complemented by John Lovelace Jr., who scored 11 points off the bench and made all six of his free throws.

Head coach Bart Lundy acknowledged the challenging nature of playing away games against strong teams. "We have had a rough stretch, playing really good teams on the road, out of region, in front of their crowds – so you have to overcome all of it," Lundy said. He praised Pullian's game and highlighted contributions from Lovelace and Jermichael Stillwell.

Stillwell achieved his second double-double this season with 11 points and 10 rebounds. AJ McKee and Themus Fulks each contributed 15 points, with Fulks also providing four rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Fulks' late-game free throws helped secure the victory.

Lundy emphasized the importance of experience in closing out games. "We've got some veterans out there, but we also have some guys that have never been in these situations," he noted.

For Duquesne, Jake DiMichele led with 21 points while Tre Dinkins added 20 points. Despite leading early on and reducing Milwaukee's lead to just two points at one stage, Duquesne struggled against Milwaukee’s defense as they failed to score a field goal for over six minutes towards the end.

The Panthers shot nearly 52% from the floor compared to Duquesne's 41.9%, won the rebounding battle with a margin of five, and dominated fastbreak points.

Milwaukee will next participate in the Cream City Challenge starting November 22nd at home against Portland State after Wofford faces St. Thomas earlier that day.