ERIE, Pa. – The Mercyhurst University men's basketball team defeated Lock Haven, 79-66, in a Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) crossover match Wednesday night at the MAC. The win was the Lakers fourth straight win and improves their record to 10-4 overall and 7-3 in PSAC-W play. The Bald Eagles fall to 9-5, 5-5 PSAC-E.

An early 7-0 run gave the Lakers a good start, as they would lead by as many as eight in the opening frame. However, behind 13 of 26 shooting from the field in the first half, the Bald Eagles were able to stay in the game, tying the score six times.

With Lock Haven holding a two point lead with 1:09 remaining in the half, Mercyhurst was able to draw back-to-back fouls and converted 3 of 4 free throws which gave them a one point lead heading into the break, 36-35.

A three pointer from Lock Haven's Cole Renninger gave the Bald Eagles their only lead of the second half, 42-41, with 15:41 to play. From there on, it was all Mercyhurst. The Lakers opened up a 17-6 run after the Renninger three ball, giving the Lakers a 10 point lead 58-48.

Damon Jones, who finished with 24 points on 8 of 11 shooting in 25 minutes of action, gave Mercyhurst their largest lead of the game with 5:51 to play when he converted a reverse layup along the baseline through traffic. The bucket gave the Lakers a 13 point lead, 67-54.

Jones led all scorers with his 24 points while Jean Onana (11) and Andy Hoying (10) also recorded double figures. Hoying finished the game with a double-double (10 pts, 10 reb).

Mercyhurst finished the game shooting 28 of 54 (51.9%) from the field and out rebounded the Bald Eagles, 35-27.The Lakers will travel to Pitt-Johnstown Saturday for a pivotal PSAC West matchup. Tipoff is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. from the Sports Center in Johnstown, Pa.