UC Irvine Tops Melbourne Team, 93-80

Jeff Von Lutzow scored 22 points and Keith Stewart added 21 as UC Irvine defeated the Melbourne Tigers in an exhibition basketball game, 93-80, Friday night before 1,033 at the Bren Center.

Andrew Gaze, the former Seton Hall star, scored 31 points for the touring Australian team.

Stewart made four of his five three-point baskets in the second half.

Dee Boyer, Irvine’s starting center, did not play because of shin splints, but is expected to be available for the season opener Tuesday at Boston University.

“I thought we played well defensively but not very well offensively,” Irvine Coach Rod Baker said. “Even though we scored 93 points, we still need to refine some things and play better half-court offense.”