ERIE, Pa. — The Mercyhurst men's basketball team (14-15, 9-7 NEC) emerged victorious over LIU (19-10, 13-3 NEC) with a final score of 91-83 on Senior Day at Mercyhurst Athletic Center. The Lakers capitalized on turnovers, scoring 20 points off LIU's 13 turnovers to secure the win.

Mercyhurst opened the game with a strong presence in the paint, securing 34 points from that area and gaining 16 points off the bench. Despite trailing early, the Lakers quickly responded with successful jumpers from James Thomas and Qadir Martin, cutting into LIU's initial lead. Martin, who scored a career-high 25 points, has now achieved 19+ points for the third straight outing. The Lakers offensive efforts, highlighted by Jake Lemelman's consecutive 3-pointers, allowed them to tie the game multiple times.

As the half progressed, the Lakers maintained pace with LIU, with Deshaun Jackson Jr. contributing significantly in the paint. The home team showcased resilience, matching LIU's scoring and forcing several ties. The half concluded with Bernie Blunt hitting a crucial jumper in the final seconds, leaving the score tied at 45–45.

The second half began with the Lakers capitalizing on its offensive opportunities, with Martin converting a layup to extend the home team's lead. A pivotal run included a 3-pointer from Christian Gamble, assisted by Mykolas Ivanauskas, which helped the Lakers maintain an edge. Lemelman later added a critical jumper and a 3-pointer, pushing the score further in favor of the home team.

Defensively, Mercyhurst was tenacious, marked by Martin's block and subsequent defensive rebound, which limited LIU's scoring chances. The Lakers' ability to create turnovers and capitalize with fast break points, including a layup by Jackson Jr., widened the gap. The half concluded with Mercyhurst leading 91-83, maintaining a strong position heading into the next phase of the game.

Martin led the Lakers with 25 points, converting 10 of 16 field goals and collecting nine rebounds. Lemelman added 20 points, sinking three 3-pointers and making 5 of 6 free throws. Blunt contributed 18 points with three assists, going 7 of 9 from the free-throw line. Jackson Jr. finished with 14 points tying his career high, hitting 7 of 8 shots from the field and adding three assists.

The Lakers have a record of 14-15 overall and 9-7 in NEC play. LIU holds a record of 19-10 overall and 13-3 in the NEC.

The Lakers will finish their season next week as they travel for a series with CCSU and Stonehill.