BROOKLYN, N.Y. — The Mercyhurst men's basketball team (17-17, 10-8 NEC) fell to LIU (24-10, 15-3 NEC) in a hard fought battle for the NEC Championship title Tuesday night. The game was marked by nine ties and five lead changes, keeping the contest competitive throughout. The Lakers scored 36 points in the paint and dished 17 assists. Despite a solid effort, the Sharks edged the Lakers 79-70.

The Lakers opened the first half with a quick start, securing an early lead with Bernie Blunt III's fast break layup and a free throw by Qadir Martin. The Lakers capitalized on points in the paint, scoring 24, and showed strong defensive efforts with three blocks and three steals. Despite their efforts, LIU responded with a series of successful field goals, including 3-pointers, that kept the game close. The half saw several ties and lead changes, indicative of the competitive nature of the matchup. LIU capitalized on fast breaks and bench contributions, while Blunt III led the offensive charge with key field goals and assists. The half concluded with Mercyhurst trailing narrowly, 42–40, setting the stage for an intense second half.

The second half began with Blunt III hitting a 3-pointer, assisted by Jake Lemelman, to edge ahead. The Lakers maintained momentum with contributions from Blunt III and Lemelman, who added another 3-pointer to their tally. Despite a series of turnovers and fouls, Mercyhurst kept pace, tying the game at multiple points. As the half progressed, the Lakers faced pressure from LIU's scoring runs. Mercyhurst responded with efforts from Martin and Lemelman but struggled to regain the lead. The half closed with the Lakers trailing 79–70. 

Graduate guard Blunt III led the way in scoring with26 points, including shooting 4-6 from three. Sophomore Martin posted a double-double with 20 points and 14 rebounds, also contributing three blocks. Jackson Jr. added seven points and recorded five assists. Lemelman tallied 12 points and dished eight assists.