A slow start to both the game and the second half was eventually too much for the Nipissing Lakers men's basketball team to overcome.

The Lakers found themselves in an early hole and despite an improvement throughout the game, came up on the losing end of a 74-49 decision to the Ottawa Gee Gees tonight at the RJS Athletic Centre.

With no potential for playoffs, the Lakers were looking to finish strong and take positives into the off-season and while there were positives, overall, they came up short.

A slow start in a slow game, saw the Gee Gees come out hotter than the Lakers and grab a 20-10 at the end of the first quarter thanks to a quick 11-4 advantage.

In the second, Nipissing started to heat up and pick up their effort both offensively and defensively and had the lead down to 22-20 near the midway point of the quarter.

Ottawa regained the momentum and ended the half strong, but still only had a 34-28 lead as the Lakers cut the deficit in a big way.

The third quarter was basically the difference in the game, as Nipissing was unable to stop the hot shooting Gee Gees.

It was a lopsided quarter with Ottawa putting up 26 points compared to the Lakers' 11 as the lead was stretched to 60-39.

In the final period, both teams clamped down defensively, with only 24 total points being scored, but it was the Gee Gees who were in control as they cruised to the victory.

Despite the loss, the effort and score both reflected the improved Lakers, holding their own against one of the country's top teams.

Kalil Langston led the Lakers with 11 points, Joey Puddister added nine and Jordan Roberts picked up eight in the loss.

Nipissing will host the Carleton Ravens Saturday night to close out the regular season.

Tip-off is at 8pm at the RJS Athletic Centre.