The MSJC men's basketball team opened Inland Empire Athletic Conference play on Thursday as they went on the road to Blythe where they defeated Palo Verde 79-71.

The Eagles had a bit of a slow start and the Pirates were ready to capitalize as unbeaten MSJC led by just one point at the half 41-40.  It appeared the Eagles were ready to pull away, but Palo Verde held strong staying within striking distance until the end.  MSJC finally put the game away in the final two minutes to bring home the victory.

Isaiah Skinner led the Eagle offense with a team high 23 points, Isiah Shirley came off the bench to score 18.  BJ Brown continued his hot three point shooting as he connected on 4 three pointers on his way to 16 points, Dasean Stevens also reached double figures with 12 points.  Elijah Shirley pulled in a game high 8 rebounds.

The win improved MSJC to 12-0 overall on the season and 1-0 in IEAC action.  The Eagles have a pair of games this week as they travel to Cerro Coso on Wednesday and host Victor Valley on Saturday.  Wednesday's game is set to tip-off at 7 pm while Saturday's game will begin at 3 pm.