HACKENSACK, N.J. — The Mercyhurst men's basketball team (12-13, 7-5 NEC) fell to FDU (9-16, 6-6 NEC) by a score of 55-52 on Saturday at the Bogota Savings Bank Center. Despite leading at halftime, the Lakers were outscored 27-22 in the second half, with the Knights capitalizing on their free throw opportunities, making 11 out of 13 attempts.

The Lakers opened the first half with a strong offensive presence, highlighted by Bernie Blunt III's early layup and jumper that set the tone. Christian Gamble contributed significantly by converting a fast-break layup following a steal, emphasizing their defensive capabilities. Despite some missed opportunities from beyond the arc, the Green and Blue maintained momentum with efficient scoring in the paint, including key baskets from Mykolas Ivanauskas and Jake Lemelman.

The team capitalized on turnovers, only committing one turnover compared to FDU's seven, allowing the Lakers to control the pace of play. A notable 3-pointer by Kaden Fuhrmann, assisted by Deshaun Jackson Jr., helped Mercyhurst keep a slight edge. The half concluded with Mercyhurst leading 30–28, as they managed to hold off their opponent's attempts to cut into the margin with consistent defensive rebounding and timely scoring.

The second half opened with Ivanauskas converting a layup, assisted by Gamble, giving Mercyhurst an early lead. Qadir Martin added a defensive stop with a block, which set the stage for Blunt's jumper to maintain a close contest. Despite this, the Knights responded to the Lakers' efforts and took the lead with several successful plays in the paint.

Mercyhurst fought back midway through the half with Blunt's three-point shooting, which helped cut into FDU's advantage. Blunt continued to be a key player, contributing another three-pointer and a fast-break layup. However, as the half drew to a close, the Knights managed to regain the lead through efficient free-throw shooting. The half ended with a narrow deficit for the Lakers, with the scoreboard reading 55–52 in favor of FDU.

Blunt scored 26 points, including three 3-pointers, and contributed four rebounds. Jackson Jr. recorded three steals and added two assists. Gamble chipped in with four points and two rebounds. Fuhrmann tallied six points, making two 3-pointers, and added two assists.

The Lakers have a record of 12-13 overall and 7-5 in NEC competition. FDU is 9-16 overall and 6-6 in NEC play.

The Lakers will continue their road series at Le Moyne Thursday, February 11 at 7:00 p.m.