After falling to the Toronto Varsity Blues at home on Friday night, the York University Lions men's basketball team travelled downtown to play the TMU Bold on Saturday evening. The Lions were looking to end a three-game losing streak and improve to 2-4 on the season.
York started well, with Jerimiah Kwarteng knocking down a jumper and a three for an early 5–4 lead. The Lions defended aggressively, but TMU responded with offensive rebounds and a series of second-chance baskets. After York wemt up 7-4 on a Gilian Mavoungou jumper, the Bold went on a 12-0 run to shift the momentum. The hosts led 25–9 after one.
The Lions adjusted their lineup in the second quarter and sparked an early 8–0 run, fuelled by strong drives and transition finishes. Jonathan Rivera chipped in key buckets, including a layup off a steal and free throws that cut the deficit to 27–19. York's defensive pressure forced five turnovers and a block in the quarter, but TMU was able to score inside often, and 14-0 run over the final 5:03 made it 49-26 at the break.
York opened the third quarter with renewed pace, attacking the rim and earning quick trips to the line. With Gilian Mavoungou leading the way, the Lions built some momentum, but TMU quickly halted the push with back-to-back threes. Despite York's active defense and forced turnovers, TMU's offensive rebounding proved decisive. The Bold turned put-backs and kick-out threes into a late run, stretching their advantage to 74–42 entering the fourth.
The Lions continued to battle in the final frame. Kwarteng added a transition finish, and York generated scoring bursts through ball movement and pressure defense. Still, TMU's balanced attack, consistent perimeter shooting, and depth kept them firmly in control. York added late free throws and a contested jumper, but the Bold closed out the game 87–61.
LOOKING AHEAD
The Lions now shift their focus to a road matchup against the Nipissing Lakers on Friday, night in North Bay. Tip-off is at 8:00 pm., as York looks to get back in the win column.
