SYLVANIA, Ohio (LourdesAthletics.com) -- Lourdes University men's basketball team fought valiantly but fell short in a 79-73 loss to Shawnee State University, Dec. 23, at Waller Gymnasium. After a sluggish first half, the Gray Wolves rallied in the second but couldn't complete the comeback, dropping to 10-4 overall and 5-2 in conference play, while the Bears improved to 5-7.
The game started slowly for Lourdes, as they struggled to find their rhythm offensively, shooting just 27.6% from the field in the first half and connecting on only 1-of-7 three-point attempts. Shawnee State capitalized on the Gray Wolves' miscues, building a 38-24 lead at halftime. Lourdes' second-half response was fierce, with the team shooting 62.5% from the floor and hitting five three-pointers, but the deficit proved too steep to overcome. Despite cutting the lead to six points late in the game, Shawnee State held firm, relying on key defensive stops and free throws to secure the win.
Shaunn Monroe led Lourdes with a game-high 24 points, shooting 10-of-23 from the field and adding six assists and four steals. Monroe, who has been a consistent scoring leader, continues to shine, averaging over 22 points per game in his last five outings. Joey Holifield delivered another standout performance, notching a double-double with 23 points and 13 rebounds, seven of which were offensive, contributing significantly to Lourdes' 13 second-chance points. However, his technical foul late in the first half allowed Shawnee State to extend their momentum. Derek Fairley added 12 points, hitting three of five from beyond the arc, while Devyn Jones chipped in eight points and grabbed five rebounds.
While Lourdes' starting lineup carried the scoring load, the bench struggled to make an impact, providing just six points compared to 13 from Shawnee State's reserves. The Gray Wolves also faced challenges containing the Bears' balanced attack, which saw five players score in double figures.
This loss marked the first time this season that Lourdes has dropped consecutive road games, following their defeat at Indiana Tech last week. Despite their offensive struggles early on, the Gray Wolves maintained their season averages in three-point shooting but recorded one of their lowest attempt totals of the year due to Shawnee State's tight perimeter defense. Holifield's double-double was his first of the season, further highlighting his importance as a two-way contributor.
Up Next:
The Gray Wolves return to the court on Monday, December 30, to host Lambton College. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. inside the Russell J. Ebeid Recreation Center in Sylvania, Ohio.
