SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — The Mount St. Joseph University men's basketball team was defeated at Wittenberg University on Saturday afternoon, 71–61.
The Lions came out strong, jumping out to an 18–10 lead eight minutes into the game following a layup by Landon Kidwell. Wittenberg responded over the next five minutes, cutting into the Mount lead. After a layup by Jason Lavender, Mount St. Joseph held a 20–17 advantage. The Tigers then closed the half on a 21–0 run, taking a 38–20 lead into halftime.
Mount St. Joseph came out aggressive in the second half, getting early baskets from Matthew Menninger. Michael Loftis added two layups and a three-pointer to cut the Wittenberg lead to single digits with 10 minutes remaining. The Lions continued to chip away and pulled within five points after Loftis completed a three-point play. However, the late rally was not enough, as Mount St. Joseph fell 71–61.
The Lions were led by Michael Loftis, who finished with 13 points and five assists, Matthew Menninger with 11 points and six rebounds, and Cooper Ollis, who added 10 points and six rebounds.
UP NEXT: The Lions will travel to Manchester University on Saturday, January 3. Tipoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.
