WEST HAVEN, Conn. — The Mercyhurst men's basketball team (9-11, 4-3 NEC) secured a narrow 61-57 victory over the University of New Haven (9-11, 4-3 NEC) at The Hazell Center. The game featured nine ties and 11 lead changes, with the Lakers pulling ahead in the final minutes. The Green and Blue capitalized on turnovers, scoring 14 points off New Haven's 14 turnovers, while limiting their own to nine.

The Lakers opened the first half with a balanced offensive approach, converting 11 of 25 field goals, including four from beyond the arc. Their efforts in the paint, led by Qadir Martin and Bernie Blunt III, contributed 12 points, and they demonstrated efficient ball movement with six assists. Despite turning the ball over six times, they maintained close control over the game.

The Chargers countered the Lakers' efforts with a strong presence in the paint, scoring 16 points, and capitalized on turnovers to gain a slight edge. The teams exchanged leads eight times, and the half was marked by six ties, emphasizing the competitive nature of the matchup. The half concluded with a narrow margin as the Chargers led 28-27, highlighting the close contest between the two teams.

The Lakers opened the second half with a defensive stop, capitalizing on a steal by Christian Gamble, which led to a layup by Martin. Jake Lemelman then connected on a 3-pointer to keep the score close. The Lakers maintained defensive pressure, forcing several turnovers and converting them into points, including a fast-break layup by Deshaun Jackson Jr.

Midway through the half, Mercyhurst gained momentum with a 3-pointer from Blunt III, followed by a layup from Lemelman to take the lead. With under a minute remaining and the score tied, Lemelman hit a crucial jumper to put the Green and Blue ahead by two. Jackson Jr. sealed the game with two free throws after a steal, concluding the half with a 61-57 victory.

Blunt III led the team with 15 points, converting 5 of 11 field goals, including two from beyond the arc. Martin scored 16 points on 8-for-12 shooting and contributed three blocks defensively. Lemelman added 14 points, making 5 of his 12 attempts and sinking two 3-pointers. Jackson Jr. was active on both ends, recording six points, four assists, and three steals.

The Lakers hold a record of 9-11 overall and 4-3 in NEC play. New Haven also stands at 9-11 overall with a 4-3 mark in NEC competition.

The Lakers will return home Sunday as they take on Chicago State at 2:00 p.m.