LAS VEGAS — In an exciting matchup at the Players Era Festival, Oregon managed to outlast San Diego State with a final score of 78-68, fueled by standout performances from TJ Bamba and Keeshawn Barthelemy. Bamba contributed a solid 22 points, while Barthelemy added 16 to the Ducks’ total on Wednesday night.

The game shifted in favor of Oregon when Barthelemy initiated a crucial 9-0 run, which was capped by a powerful three-point play from Bamba, allowing the Ducks to take a decisive 34-27 lead toward the end of the first half. Jackson Shelstad then sunk a 3-pointer, followed by Barthelemy, who made two free throws, helping Oregon establish a 41-31 advantage at halftime.

Both Shelstad and Brandon Angel were significant contributors, each scoring 12 points, while Nate Bittle secured 11 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Their collective efforts on the offensive end bolstered Oregon’s performance throughout the game.

For San Diego State, BJ Davis led the way with 18 points, and he was assisted by Nick Boyd, who added 15 points, along with Miles Byrd’s contribution of 10 points. The Aztecs made a notable effort to claw back into the game, registering a 9-0 run that cut the Oregon lead to just 56-53 following Boyd’s jumper midway through the second half.

However, Oregon responded swiftly, with Angel, Bamba, and Barthelemy each knocking down 3-pointers to extend their lead. Shelstad’s three free throws after a foul on a long-range shot further solidified Oregon’s position, as San Diego State was unable to reduce the deficit to fewer than three possessions during the remaining five and a half minutes.

Oregon’s shooting percentage stood at 35%, but they managed to hit 10 shots from beyond the arc. In contrast, San Diego State shot at a higher percentage of 51%, yet they only made six three-pointers and struggled at the foul line, hitting only 4 of 8 attempts.

Looking ahead, Oregon will face the winner of the Rutgers-Alabama game in the championship match scheduled for Saturday, while San Diego State will compete against the losing team for a chance at third place.