The York University Lions men's basketball team faced off against the Lakehead Thunderwolves on Saturday evening in the second game of their weekend doubleheader. Coming into the game, York sat 1-2 on the young season while the Thunderwolves entered at 3-2. The Lions were hoping to avoid a repeat of Friday night's heartbreaking 73-71 loss, while Lakehead eyed a second straight win.

York managed to hold a slight edge early in the first quarter, thanks to contributions from Jordan Nelson and Gilian Mavoungou, who combined for 17 of the Lions 21 in the quarter, as York took a one-point lead to the second. However, Lakehead took control over the next two quarters, outscoring the Lions 48-29, and took an 18-point lead to the fourth.

Lakehead's balanced attack soon turned the tide in the second and third. Chris Sagl led the Thunderwolves with 20 points, connecting on five three-pointers, while Harold Santacruz added 19 points and 11 rebounds. Carsen Unrau chipped in 15 points, including three triples, helping Lakehead build a lead that York struggled to close.

York fought valiantly, with Nelson scoring a team-high 22 points and snatching seven rebounds, while Malakai Ayres-Olson added six points and six boards. Despite those strong efforts, Lakehead came away with an 88-70. With this loss, York falls to 1-3 on the season, while Lakehead improves to 4-2, having now won three straight.

LOOKING AHEAD: 

The Lions look to bounce back as they host their bitter rivals, the Toronto Varsity Blues, on Friday night at the Tait McKenzie Centre. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 pm.