Mercyhurst University Athletics

ERIE, Pa. — The Mercyhurst men's basketball team defeated Saint Francis 98-89 in overtime at the Mercyhurst Athletics Center Thursday evening. Three Lakers scored 20 or more points, helping head coach Gary Manchel to his 400^th career win at Mercyhurst.
 
Mercyhurst (12-12, 7-4 NEC) opened the first half against Saint Francis with a strong offensive display, quickly finding their rhythm. Kaden Fuhrmann sank a 3-pointer at 14:52, bringing the Green and Blue within one point early. Momentum shifted further in their favor with Qadir Martin's layup at 13:40, assisted by Fuhrmann, giving the home team the lead.
 
Mercyhurst capitalized on their defensive efforts, forcing Saint Francis (6-16, 4-5 NEC) into nine turnovers while maintaining a solid presence in the paint. As the first half concluded, the Lakers extended their advantage with Deshaun Jackson Jr.'s layup at 0:41 and Bernie Blunt's free throws, closing out with a 45-37 lead.
 
Mercyhurst initially surged ahead with a series of three-pointers, including two from Blunt, extending their lead to 56–45 by 16:30. Saint Francis mounted a comeback, however, reclaiming the lead at 9:44 with a fast-break layup, making it 63–60.
 
The Lakers responded with a strong finish, highlighted by a three-pointer from Jake Lemelman at 4:30, regaining the lead at 74–70. The Red Flash tied the game at 79 with 20 seconds remaining, and the Lakers failed to sink a last second shot attempt, sending the game into overtime.
 
Mercyhurst took an early lead in extra time with strong free throw shooting, converting 11 of 12 attempts. Lemelman added to the momentum with a key layup at 4:11, assisted by Martin, pushing the Lakers ahead. Blunt contributed significantly, making crucial free throws late to maintain the advantage. Mercyhurst secured their seventh NEC win, 98–89 over Saint Francis.
 
Blunt scored 26 points, converting 11 of 12 free throws and making three 3-pointers, while also recording two steals. Martin posted a double-double with 20 points and 12 rebounds, adding four blocks and five assists. Lemelman tallied 21 points, hitting two 3-pointers and securing seven rebounds. Deshaun Jackson Jr. added 10 points and contributed five rebounds along