Box Score Looking to close out the first half of the season on a high note, the Nipissing Lakers women's basketball team hosted the first half of a home-home-home with the Laurentian Voyageurs.

Coming off two solid efforts against top opponents last week, the Lakers were looking to continue their strong play and get back into the win column Friday night.

The Lakers began the weekend in style, grinding out a 77-71 win over their northern rivals.

Nipissing had a solid, consistent effort through the opening 20 minutes.

After being tied 10-10 early on, the Lakers pulled away and led 23-16 after the first quarter.

They doubled their offensive output in the second quarter, posting another 23 points as they once again outscored Laurentian.

Thanks to a strong half at both ends of the court, Nipissing led 46-35 at the halftime break.

In the third quarter, an even 10 minutes saw the team combine for 30 points, with the Lakers maintaining their advantage.

After three, they continued to lead Laurentian, now up 61-50.

While they maintained a lead through the fourth, the Lakers saw the advantage shrink through the first half of the final quarter.

The lead dwindled to seven points with five minutes to go in the game.

As the Vees poured it on, the Lakers managed to hold in the dying minutes, coming away with a six point win.

Megan McCarter had a big game with 23 points for the Lakers, while Dominique Bouchard added 13 and Chantal Piche scored 12 in the victory.

The Lakers and Vees close out the home-and-home series Saturday night in Sudbury.

Game time is 6pm as both teams wraps up the first half of the season.