It was a tough night for the Nipissing Lakers men's basketball team closed out the home portion of the 2017-18 season.

The Lakers fell 85-60 to the Ottawa Gee Gees at the RJS Athletic Centre in front of a rowdy crowd.

The Lakers played strong moving quickly and swiftly along the court, using their speed to grab a first quarter lead.

After 10 minutes, Nipissing led 23-17.

The second quarter was a show of equally matched teams as they both fought for the ball.

Even with a tough defense, Ottawa managed to overcome the Lakers and finish the second quarter up seven, 39-32.

While they were within striking distance, the second half wasn't kind to the Lakers, as they were outscored 46-28 to take control of the game.

They continued to run a tough defense forcing Ottawa to work for their shots. The third quarter ended 59-46 for Ottawa.

Nipissing kept pushing into the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, it just wasn't enough to overcome Ottawa, as they game finished.

Marcus Lewis led the way with 19 points, Justin Shaver had 9 and Quinton Ashitei had 7 in Saturday's loss.

Nipissing faces Toronto and Ryerson next weekend on the road.