An exciting night at the RJS Athletic Centre didn't go the way the Nipissing Lakers men's basketball team, as they fell to the York Lions Friday night.

Despite an entertaining game and holding the lead late in the game, Nipissing was unable to lock down the game and dropped a 73-64 decision to begin 2019.

The Lakers trailed 24-16 after one, but turned it around in the second quarter.

After being down eight through 10 minutes, Nipissing posted 20 points in the second, outscoring York by 10 to take a 36-34 lead into the break.

The third quarter is where the Lakers struggled, as they posted just nine points and were outscored by 12.

With the big advantage, the Lions headed to the fourth quarter up 55-45.

Down 10 in the final quarter, Nipissing fought back and cut their deficit, eventually outscoring York by one, but the comeback bid wasn't enough.

The Lakers, who came up short by nine, will host Queens Saturday night.

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