CHICAGO, Ill. — Mercyhurst University secured a 73–65 victory over Loyola Chicago Thursday evening. Senior guard Bernie Blunt III led the charge, matching his career high as a Laker with 27 points.

The game tipped off with an early exchange of baskets, but the Lakers quickly found a rhythm with back-to-back layups — first from Bernie Blunt III and then from Qadir Martin off a fast break three minutes into the game — setting the tone for a strong offensive performance. A few minutes later, Martin struck again, this time blocking a shot and converting the rebound into a put-back to keep the momentum firmly in Mercyhurst's favor. The Lakers turned defensive stops into offensive opportunities, as Mykolas Ivanauskas kept the drive alive with a layup toward the end of the first half.

Blunt's three-pointer in the final five minutes of the half, complemented by Jake Lemelman's assist, extended the Lakers' control, and the half concluded with Mercyhurst leading 34–27.

Mercyhurst extended their lead early in the second half with a crucial 11–2 run, highlighted by Cameron Johnson's layup and a three-pointer by Kaden Fuhrmann. The visitors controlled the boards, out-rebounding the Ramblers 24–14, and maintained their advantage in the paint. Despite a late push from Loyola Chicago, Blunt secured the victory with six free throws in the final minute. 

Not only did Blunt match his career high as a Laker in points, but he also set a career high for free-throw attempts and makes, going 12 of 15 from the line. The Lakers closed out the game with a 73–65 win, outscoring the Ramblers 39–38 in the second half.

The Lakers maintained composure in a close contest, outscoring the Ramblers in the paint with 32 points. Despite Loyola Chicago's eight blocks, Mercyhurst's balanced offensive effort, highlighted by 16 bench points, proved decisive in the end.

Martin recorded five field goals and collected three blocks, adding to his 12-point performance. Ivanauskas contributed with three steals and nearly reached a double-double with nine rebounds. Deshaun Jackson Jr. added 11 points and dished out five assists.

Up next, the Lakers return home to the Mercyhurst Athletic Center to begin their home campaign Saturday, November 8 against Penn State New Kensington at 3 p.m.