Box Score After a weekend split where they earned their first win of the 2023-24 OUA season, the Nipissing Lakers men's basketball returned home for three straight games.

Friday's contest against the Ottawa Gee Gees was one of two matchups during the season, as Ottawa entered the game a perfect 5-0.

While the Lakers battled through 40 minutes, the powerful Gee Gees defeated Nipissing by a final of 97-69.

A slow start saw the Lakers down 10-0 in the first few minutes of the quarter, but bounce back in a nice way, outscoring Ottawa in the next six minutes 12-9 to close the gap.

After one, the Lakers trailed 24-17.

The fact-pace continued in the second quarter, with the Gee Gees extending their lead before Nipissing fought back once again.

The Lakers trailed 43-34 late in the half.

And at the break, the Lakers found themselves down 47-39.

In the second half, the Gee Gees managed to separate themselves from the Lakers, outscoring Nipissing by 15 in the third, extending their advantage and taking control of the game.

After 30 minutes, the Lakers trailed 73-50.

In the final quarter, the Lakers pushed, but Ottawa managed to slow any offensive attack, while adding to their lead.

The Gee Gees sealed the win and came away with victory.

Darnaz Mabanza led the Lakers with 16 points and 10 rebounds, Jack Hagerty and Alex Blackmore each had 14 points and Alvin Icyogere had 10 in the contest.

The Lakers are back on the court Saturday night, closing out they weekend against the Carleton Ravens.

Tip-off is 8pm at the Robert J. Surtees Athletic Centre.