Box Score The Nipissing Lakers men's basketball team was looking for another strong, but this time, complete effort, as they looked to get back in the win column.

With just three games remaining, the Lakers were looking to head into the off-season with some momentum as they build towards the future.

Friday, the Lakers hosted the Algoma Thunderbirds and came up with a strong effort, grabbing a 75-69 win on Indigenous Cultural Celebration Night.

In the first, the Thunderbirds got the jump on the Lakers, leading 14-9 late.

Nipissing exploded for six straight points, taking over the lead after 10 minutes, as they found themselves up 15-14.

A huge second quarter had Nipissing taking control of the game.

The Lakers scored 27 points and turned a one-point advantage into an 11-point lead at the halftime break, up 42-31.

Algoma came out sharp in the third and turned the game around, outscoring Nipissing 26-14 to take a one point lead into the final minutes of the quarter.

After 30 minutes of play, Nipissing held a slight lead of 58-57 over the Thunderbirds.

In the fourth, the game was still up for grabs, but Nipissing did manage to open up a small cushion again, leading by five with under four minutes to go.

The Lakers held on late, earning a six-point win.

Darnaz Mabanza led the Lakers offence with 23 points, while Alvin Icyogere added a double-double, scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds.

Nipissing plays their final home game of the season next Friday as they take on the Guelph Gryphons.

Tip-off is 8pm at the RJS Athletic Centre.