ERIE, Pa. — The Mercyhurst men's basketball team (17-16, 10-8 NEC) will play in the NEC Championship in their first year of eligibility as they edged past Stonehill (12-21, 8-10 NEC) with a 56-51 victory at the Mercyhurst Athletic Center on Saturday. The Lakers secured the win with a strong second-half performance, outscoring Stonehill 33-32 in the final period.
The Lakers opened the first half with defensive intensity, forcing six turnovers and converting them into points.
Bernie Blunt III, who has paced the Lakers throughout the season recording 13 or more total points in 10 consecutive games, initiated the scoring with a layup and later added another off a fast break, contributing significantly to the team's performance.
Cameron Johnson hit a key 3-pointer early on to help maintain the momentum, and his performance was part of a season-high 17 points, in which he attempted a season-high 11 field goals.
Qadir Martin and
Deshaun Jackson Jr. further extended the lead with a 3-pointer and crucial free throws respectively. The Lakers controlled the boards, grabbing 20 rebounds, which helped sustain its offensive efforts. The half concluded with a layup by Jackson Jr., giving the Lakers a 23–19 lead over Stonehill.
The Lakers began the second half with strong defensive efforts, including a block by Martin, setting the tone early. Blunt III contributed significantly to the offense, sinking a jumper and following up with two successful free throws to extend the Lakers' lead. The team maintained a solid defensive presence, with Johnson adding a pivotal block and defensive rebound. Despite the Skyhawks attempts to close the gap, including a series of baskets by Davante Hackett, Mercyhurst's offense kept the pressure, highlighted by a crucial three-pointer from Johnson. In the final minutes,
Jake Lemelman, who has recorded at least 10 total points in 8 consecutive games, sealed the half with key free throws, maintaining the Lakers' lead. The half concluded with Mercyhurst ahead, 56–51.
Johnson scored 17 points, converting 7 of 11 field goals and adding three 3-pointers. Blunt recorded 13 points and led the team with seven rebounds while also collecting two steals. Martin contributed eight points and registered three blocks, leading the team's defensive efforts.
Mercyhurst has a record of 17-16 overall and 10-8 in NEC play. Stonehill has a record of 12-21 overall and 8-10 in NEC competition.
The Lakers will play the winner of Wagner vs LIU Tuesday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m. for the NEC championship game.
