The Nipissing Lakers men's basketball team showed a lot of grit Saturday night, bouncing back to earn a key victory.

After a tough loss Friday night to begin the second semester, the Lakers pulled off an impressive come-from-behind win over the York Lions.

A game that went down to the wire, was finally sealed late, with Nipissing picking up a 68-64 win over the visiting Lions.

The Lakers improve to 6-5 on the season as they push towards a playoff spot in the tough OUA East Division.

York came out flying, jumping out to a 16-0 lead and in complete control of the game.

They continued with the hot hand through the second quarter and while their lead dipped, they were still in control, up 20-11.

After 20 minutes of play, the Lakers had closed the gap, but still trailed by six, 36-30 at the break.

A huge third quarter and a strong fourth quarter, saw Nipissing grab a hold of the lead.

Nipissing scored 38 points in the second half and sealed the win with some great defence which included taking a number charges down the stretch, sacrificing their bodies for the win.

Ismael Kaba led the way with 16 points, Justin Shaver scored 15 and Marcus Lewis added 12 in the victory.

Nipissing will remain at home to face Toronto and Ryerson next weekend, with games set for 8pm both Friday and Saturday night at the RJS Athletic Centre.