The Lakeland's men's basketball team came back from the holiday and picked up right where they left off. A shortened bench made the trip to Niagara County Community College and defeated the Thunderwolves 89-83. Lakeland, currently ranked 5th in the NJCAA DII national polls, improved to 9-0 on the season. Jaidon Lipscomb led the way scoring 21 points while shooting 50% beyond the arc. Kyle Jackson scored 16 points on 7-8 shootoing from the field. Blake Bluitt added 15 points on 3-3 shooting from 3-point range. Chaze Harris finished with 11 points, 10 rebounds, 4 steals and 3 blocks.  There were a couple of key moments in this game that triggered the Lakers victory. Lipscomb keyed 3 such plays as he hit 3-pointers on three separate occassions as time was winding down on the shot clock. Harris also had a key defensive play late. When the game was still in the balance, he drew a critical charge to give the Lakers the ball back and help seal the victory.

Hunter's Highlights: "I was pleased with the team effort - everyone contributed. It will good when we get everyone back healthy in the next week or so. We have a quick turn-around with our league opener on Saturday. we will need to reset and focus quickly as LCCC is always a well coached team."

Next up: The Lakers will play host to the Lorain County Community College Commodores on Saturday (1/8). Tip off is scheduled for 2pm.  Please note that masks are required for all spectators regardless of vaccination status.