Box Score After a strong weekend on the road that earned them a split, the Nipissing Lakers women's basketball team hit their home court Friday night.

Hosting the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks – the team they beat last weekend – the Lakers looked to move over .500 early in the season.

While they led for most of the game, the Lakers were unable to close things out, falling 62-59 to the Ridgebacks, spoiling their home opener.

After a slow start, the Lakers finished the quarter in style.

Trailing by a handful midway through, a quick run put Nipissing up 14-12 after the opening 10 minutes.

Another strong quarter by both teams saw the Lakers outscore by a pair once again, extending their lead to four points at the half.

After 20 minutes, the Lakers headed to the dressing room leading 30-26.

In the third, neither team was able to take over, but continued to play competitive basketball.

Another tight quarter saw the Lakers hold on to a lead through 30 minutes, leading by two, 43-31 heading into the fourth and final quarter.

There wasn't much separating the two teams, but up in the fourth, the Lakers looked to close things out.

Unfortunately, a late push by Ontario Tech saw them score 21 points in the fourth, storming back and escaping with a three point win, upsetting Nipissing.

Leading the way offensively for the Lakers was Megan McCarter, who posted 20 points and 16 rebounds, while Sophie Milner had 17 points and 15 rebounds and Dominque Bouchard added 10 points in the contest.

The Lakers are back in action Saturday afternoon, hosting the powerful Queen's Gaels.

Tip-off is set for 4pm at the Robert J. Surtees Athletic Centre.