The MSJC men's basketball team shook off a slow start on Wednesday night to claim a 78-51 Inland Empire Athletic Conference win over visiting Barstow College.

The Eagles and the Vikings both got off to somewhat of a slow start, but a Chidi Okwarabizie basket with 11:08 to play in the first half gave MSJC a 13-11 lead that they would not relinquish the rest of the game.  The Eagles were able to build the lead to 33-23 by halftime.  The second half also got off to a sluggish start, but after Barstow cut the Eagle lead to 7, MJSC responded by going on a 27-4 run over a nearly seven minute span that put the game away.  During the decisive run MSJC had four crowd pleasing dunks in transition that were created by solid defense.

Jamaal Barnes led all scorers in the game with 20 points, while Okwarabizie had a double double with 16 points and 12 rebounds.  Mekhi Hill also reached double digits in scoring with 15 points.  The Eagles shared the ball exceptionally well on the night collecting 21 assists on 30 made baskets, Barnes had a team high 4.

The win evens the Eagles overall record on the season at 11-11, they are 7-3 in IEAC action.  Barstow fell to 2-20 and 0-10.  MSJC is currently in second place in the league standings, a half game ahead of San Bernardino Valley.  The Eagles will be back at home on Saturday when they host Cerro Coso College at 3 pm.