JOILET, Ill. (LourdesAthletics.com) -- The Lourdes University men's basketball team wrapped up a competitive weekend at the University of Saint Francis (Ill.) Tournament, falling in a closely contested opener to the host University of Saint Francis 66-64, before bouncing back with an 80-79 victory over Saint Xavier University (Ill.) on Sunday afternoon.

GAME 1:
In Saturday's matchup against the University of Saint Francis, Shaunn Monroe once again led the way for the Gray Wolves, scoring 30 points on 12-of-21 shooting, including four three-pointers. His performance marked his fifth game this season scoring 30 or more points. Derrell Jones contributed 10 points and six rebounds, maintaining his streak of scoring in double figures in every game he has played this season. Derek Fairley and Devyn Jones each added six points in a game that featured five lead changes. Despite trailing by just one point at halftime, Lourdes couldn't capitalize late, dropping their first game of the season.

As a team, Lourdes shot 44.6% from the field in the contest, connecting on 25-of-56 attempts, including seven three-pointers. The Gray Wolves were efficient at the free-throw line, making 7-of-11 attempts (63.6%). Lourdes held a narrow edge on the boards, grabbing 27 rebounds, with nine coming on the offensive glass. The Gray Wolves scored 20 points in the paint and generated 10 points off turnovers but were limited to five second-chance points. A defensive effort that produced seven steals and three blocked shots kept the game close in a back-and-forth battle featuring five lead changes and four ties.

GAME 2:
Sunday saw Lourdes return to form with a thrilling one-point win over Saint Xavier University. The Gray Wolves built a nine-point halftime lead and held on down the stretch, withstanding a late Cougar rally. Kendall Perkins turned in a career-high 19 points, leading the team while also grabbing eight rebounds. Monroe followed up his Saturday performance with 14 points and five assists, while Fairley chipped in 12 points and seven rebounds. Prakash Ketterhagen and Devyn Jones added 12 and 10 points, respectively, giving Lourdes five players in double figures.

As a team, Lourdes showcased balanced scoring in its 80-79 victory, with five players reaching double figures. The Gray Wolves shot 40.9% from the field (27-of-66), including five three-pointers, while capitalizing on 21-of-29 (72.4%) free-throw attempts. Lourdes dominated inside with 40 points in the paint and converted 25 points off turnovers, forcing Saint Xavier into 16 giveaways. The Gray Wolves also secured 35 rebounds, with nine on the offensive end, while dishing out 11 assists. Despite a late Saint Xavier rally, Lourdes' ability to spread the scoring load and maintain defensive intensity proved pivotal in earning the one-point victory.

Up Next: 
The Gray Wolves improved to 8-1 overall and 3-0 in WHAC play following the weekend. Lourdes will return to the floor on Wednesday evening, traveling to Southfield, Mich., to take on Lawrence Technological University in a 7:30 p.m. tip-off.