Facing one of the top teams in the country, the Nipissing Lakers men's basketball was unable to keep pace despite a solid effort.

Ryerson led from the get-go and cruised to a 96-60 win over Nipissing Friday night at the RJS Athletic Centre.

Ryerson led by eight after the first and was up 46-29 at the halftime break, catching fire late in the second quarter just before the teams hit the intermission.

Nipissing pushed back early in the third, but fell behind by seven more as the Rams extended their lead, outscoring the Lakers 22-15.

Down in the fourth, the Lakers posted another 16 points to try to close the gap, but the Rams closed out the game in style and picked up the victory.

Marcus Lewis with 13 points, while Quintin Ashitei added 10 in the contest.

Nipissing hosts Toronto Saturday night at 8pm.