Box Score Coming off a win last weekend, the Nipissing Lakers men's basketball was hoping to make it two in a row as they hit the court Friday night.

In their final home game of the regular season and second to last of the season overall, the Lakers hosted the Guelph Gryphons at the Robert J. Surtees Athletic Centre.

The Lakers impressed from the jump ball, playing well a both ends of the court and grabbing their second straight win, topping Guelph 88-80.

Nipissing jumped out to a quick start, going up 14-8 early in the opening quarter.

The teams traded baskets towards the end of the quarter, but the Lakers stayed out in front, leading 20-15 after one.

Nipissing built on their lead, going up by seven at the midway mark of the second quarter and a strong finish to the half saw the Lakers lead balloon to 12 points.

Thanks to a solid effort at both ends, the Lakers led the Gryphons 40-28 after 20 minutes of play.

The Gryphons started the third very well, closing the gap to five points, but the Lakers were able to respond and extend the lead back to a comfortable spot.

With the score 50-45, the Lakers scored four quick points to build their lead back up to nine with just over three minutes left in the quarter.

A frantic finish to the third saw the Lakers take a 64-48 lead to the break after 30 minutes of play.

An intense fourth quarter saw Guelph push back and the Lakers bend, but not break as they didn't relinquish the lead.

In the end, their defence stood tall and gave them the eight-point triumph.

Alvin Icyogere had a huge game, posting 23 points, Darnaz Mabanza had 17, Taijon Graham added a double-double, with 13 points and 17 rebounds and Marcus Moore scored 10 in the victory.

Nipissing takes on Brock Saturday night, with tip-off set for 8pm.