BUFFALO, N.Y. — Mercyhurst University fell to Canisius College, 58–55, in a tightly contested matchup at Koessler Athletic Center. The game featured four ties and four lead changes, highlighting the competitive nature of the contest. The Lakers capitalized on turnovers, scoring 16 points off Canisius's 13 giveaways, but it was not enough to secure the win.
The matchup started with Canisius gaining an early lead just under a minute into the game. The Lakers responded with a fast-paced offense, highlighted by Bernie Blunt III's jumper around the 19th minute. Christian Gamble's three-pointer near the 18-minute mark helped level the score at 5–5. The Lakers maintained momentum with Jake Lemelman's jumper around the 14th minute, creating a narrow lead.
As the half progressed, Canisius reclaimed control through key plays midway through the half. Despite this, Mercyhurst kept pace with a three-pointer from Lemelman around the eight minute mark, briefly giving them the upper hand. The half concluded with Mercyhurst trailing 32–25, as Canisius capitalized on free throws and a late jumper.
In the second half, the Lakers made a determined push, sparked by Lemelman's jumper in the opening minute, narrowing the score to 32–27. Blunt's three-pointer around the ninth minute tied the game at 41–41, showcasing a strong offensive effort. Blunt continued to shine, and his pivotal three-pointer near the final minute not only brought excitement to the game but also marked a personal milestone, as he surpassed 1,000 career points. Despite Mercyhurst's resilience, highlighted by Blunt's three-pointer and free throws in the closing moments, Canisius managed to maintain a slight edge. The half concluded with a 58–55 lead for Canisius, as the Lakers outscored them 30–26.
Blunt led the team with 19 points and five rebounds. Lemelman added 18 points, including two three-pointers. Qadir Martin contributed seven points along with two blocks and two steals, while James Thomas collected six rebounds and recorded two steals.
Up next, the Lakers return home Saturday, November 15 to take on Morgan State in their first Division I matchup at home. The contest is slated to begin at 4:00 p.m at Owen McCormick Court at the Mercyhurst Athletic Center.
