A young Nipissing Lakers men's basketball team faced a tough team to open up the 2019-20 OUA season, which began at the Surtees Athletic Centre Friday night.

Nipissing came up short, losing 90-56 to the Queens Gaels in an offensive battle for both teams.

While it wasn't the start they were looking for the Lakers trailed by 12 after the first quarter, 21-9, but were unlucky when it came to some bounces.

Looking to close the gap in the second, Nipissing put up 16 points, but unfortunately surrender 29, as they fell behind 50-25 at halftime.

The Gaels went up by 30 after three quarters, putting up another 20 in the third, while Nipissing managed 15 of their own, but were unable to close the gap.

With the game all but in hand in the fourth, the teams traded points, but in the end, another 20 for the Gales put the game out of reach.

The Lakers finished the game with 16 points in the final frame.

Quintin Ashitei had a big game, scoring 24 points leading the way for the Lakers. In all, nine players had at least a basket for Nipissing.

Next up, Nipissing will host the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks, who took on Laurentian Friday night.

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