Erie, Pa.—The Mercyhurst Men's Basketball team found themselves back in the win column as they took down crosstown rival Gannon 68-63 at the Hammermill Center Wednesday night.
Defense was top of mind in the first half as both teams shot below their season averages from the floor and combined to make just one-third of all shots taken over the first 20 minutes. When the dust cleared and the teams headed to the locker room, Mercyhurst led 26-25 after a pair of free throws by MiyKah McIntosh with 1:06 left and neither team making a basket in the final minute.
For 15 minutes in the second half, Mercyhurst controlled the lead and pulled away by as much as eight points. Gannon was able to take two momentary leads and keep the game close enough to force Mercyhurst to perform at the charity stripe, and they did not disappoint.
Mercyhurst made all 10 of their free throws in the final two minutes, accounting for all of their points down the stretch and slowly overcoming the Golden Knights.
Mercyhurst improved to 11-1 on the season and 5-1 against PSAC opponents with the win. The Lakers received double-digit performances from Nicholas Lang (15 points), Michael Bradley (14) and McIntosh (14). McIntosh moved up to 16th on the list of Mercyhurst career scoring leaders and is two points away from tying the next spot.
Meanwhile, Gannon fell to 7-3 and 4-2 in the PSAC despite a 21-point performance from Demetrius Mims and a 20-point game from Lance-Amir Paul.
Pride of Erie
With the win Wednesday, Mercyhurst has now been victorious against Gannon in their last seven meetings dating back to Jan. 23, 2019. It is the longest streak of consecutive wins against Gannon that Mercyhurst has strung together since the teams first met in 1974.
Coach's Corner
Up Next
The Lakers will head back on the road to take on Seton Hill Saturday at 3 p.m.
