ERIE, Pa. — The Mercyhurst men's basketball team (8-11, 3-3 NEC) secured a commanding 79-61 victory over CCSU (10-7, 4-2 NEC) at the Mercyhurst Athletic Center Monday afternoon. The home team took control early, building a 14-point lead by halftime. The Lakers continued their first half momentum into the second and never gave up their lead in the full forty minutes of play.

Sophomore guard Jake Lemelman set the tone early for the Lakers, coming into the first half full tilt. Lemelman scored ten points in the first six minutes of play and continued his momentum throughout the first half scoring 15 points for the Lakers. Bernie Blunt III's defensive efforts, including a steal and subsequent layup, contributed to the home team's early momentum. The Lakers capitalized on turnovers and fast breaks, with Qadir Martin and Lemelman extending the lead through effective shooting and assists. 

As the half progressed, Mercyhurst maintained control with efficient scoring from inside the paint, accumulating 22 points in that area. Despite the Blue Devil's attempts to close the gap, the Lakers' defensive rebounds and five steals limited the visitors' opportunities. The half ended with Mercyhurst holding an important 42-28 lead.

Mercyhurst began the second half by maintaining their quick pace and utilizing multiple players on the court. The Blue Devils looked to cut into the deficit, but the Lakers quickly gained momentum with back-to-back three pointers by Christian Gamble. The Green and Blue controlled the paint, adding 16 points and securing key defensive rebounds.

The Blue Devils were unable to shift the momentum despite efforts from Darin Smith Jr., who contributed with free throws and a dunk. The Lakers' defense was resilient, with Deshaun Jackson Jr. executing a crucial block. The half ended with Mercyhurst extending their lead to a score of 79–61.

The Lakers shot 55% from the field and 52.9% from three. Blunt III led the team by scoring 20 points, including two 3-pointers, and added five rebounds. Lemelman matched Blunt's output with 20 points, converting four 3-pointers and dishing out six assists. Martin contributed significantly with a double-double, scoring 14 points and securing a team-high 10 rebounds, while also posting four assists. Jackson Jr. posted six assists, six points, and blocked two shots. 

Mercyhurst is currently 8-11 overall and 3-3 in NEC play. Central Connecticut State holds a record of 10-7 overall and 4-2 in the NEC.

The Lakers will next travel to New Haven to take on the Chargers Friday, January 23 at 1:00 p.m.