ARPAN KAUR // yorkulions.ca
 
After a hard-fought battle against the cross-town rivals, the York University Lions men's basketball team returned to home court seeking to improve their 1-3 season record but fell short 69-60 to the Toronto Varsity Blues Wednesday night at the Tait McKenzie Centre.
 
It was a special night for the Lions forward, Somto Dimanochie who made his return and 2022 season appearance against the Blues, after returning from a shoulder injury. In a 28-minute season debut performance, Dimanochie made an impactful double-double performance, posting 14 points and adding 17 boards.     
 
HOW IT HAPPENED

• The Varsity Blues took charge early in the first quarter as they broke free on a 13-2 run to lead the Lions 15-8.
• The Lions kicked off the second 10-minutes of action with a flare of heat, as they embarked on a 17-4 run, triggered by a Prince Kamunga jump shot. Tyler Pryce then cut the deficit to a two-point contest on a euro-step layup, wrapping up the first half 28-26.
• The rivals engaged in back-and-forth combat in the third quarter. But the Blues were able to gain the upper hand and maintained a slim advantage throughout the third frame. In the dying seconds, Anthony Daudu nailed a contested three-pointer to stretch the margin to 48-42 heading into the final frame.
• The Blues returned with their momentum, as they went on a 10-3 run three minutes into the fourth. The Lions then put in a valiant effort to get back into the game, as Tyler Van Dyke pulled up from behind the arc to cut the lead to 63-57 with 2:43 remaining on the shot clock. However, it was not enough to put away the hot-handed Blues, as the visitors came away with a 69-60 victory.

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING
 
"We started a little slow but found our grove later on. Our guys must learn how to be disciplined and execute for 40 minutes. It's a process that we're working on and we'll get there. We're really happy to have Somto back on the court, a rebounder, shot-blocker, paint protector someone who we can really count on."  — head coach Jermain Holness
 
LOOKING AHEAD
 
The Lions are back in action Saturday, Nov. 19, as they head over to Guelph Ont., to familiarize themselves with the OUA West when they play the Gryphons. The tip-off is slated for 3 pm.