Embry-Riddle used a balanced attack on Thursday night, powering past La Sierra University 86–59 in Riverside, California. The Eagles controlled the game wire-to-wire, never trailing and leading by as many as 28 points.

Noah Gifft delivered a career-type night, pouring in 32 points on a blistering 9-for-14 shooting, including 7-of-9 from beyond the arc and 7-of-8 at the free-throw line. Gifft was nearly unstoppable in the second half, dropping 24 points after the break and hitting all five of his second-half three-point attempts. He added five rebounds, two assists, and a steal to round out his dominant performance.

The Eagles' offense was clicking from the opening tip, scoring 43 points in each half and shooting an impressive 54.7% from the field. ERU knocked down 14 three-pointers at a 56% clip and went 14-for-15 from the free-throw line (93%). 

Matur Dhal added an efficient 10 points on 5-of-6 shooting, while Christian Wells played a strong all-around game with 8 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists, and zero turnovers. Wells also anchored the defense and tallied a team-high three steals.

The Eagles' bench made a major impact, contributing 26 points. Adam Mickulin fired in eight points off the bench, including a pair of threes, while Ethan Macken added six points and four rebounds with strong interior play.

Embry-Riddle held La Sierra to 38.9% shooting, including just 21 points in the paint. The Eagles forced 14 turnovers, converting them into 22 points on the other end. ERAU won the rebounding battle 36–22, controlling the defensive glass and limiting second-chance opportunities.

ERAU will head to Hope International next for a Saturday matchup against the Royals.