CINCINNATI, OHIO – The Mount St. Joseph University men's basketball team was defeated by Transylvania University, 72–67, Saturday afternoon at the Harrington Center. Prior to the game, the Lions celebrated senior Matthew Menninger for his contributions over the last four years in the MSJ men's basketball program.
The Mount came out strong with a layup from Michael Loftis and a three-pointer from Joe Brand, giving them an early 5–0 lead. The Lions continued this momentum, building their largest lead of the half to 10 points at 19–9 midway through the half. During this span, Matthew Menninger scored two baskets, Brand converted an and-one play, Griffen Derry hit a three-pointer, and Jay Bilton and Landon Kidwell both added baskets. Transylvania went on a mini run, cutting the Mount's lead to two, but the Lions responded with two three-pointers and a jumper, pushing the lead back to nine at 29–20 with five minutes left in the half. The Pioneers ended the half on an 11–2 run, and the Mount went into halftime tied 31–31.
Less than a minute into the second half, Jason Lavender finished at the rim, giving the Lions a 33–31 lead. The Pioneers built a small lead during the first ten minutes of the half, but at the 9:40 mark, Griffen Derry knocked down a three-pointer to cut the deficit to two, 48–46. The Mount cut Transylvania's lead to three with ten seconds left in the game, but the Pioneers sank free throws to hold on for the 72–67 win. Derry led the Lions in the second half with 9 points, converting three three-pointers.
The Mount was led by Griffen Derry, who scored 12 points while shooting 4-of-5 from beyond the arc. Matthew Menninger finished with 11 points and 5 rebounds. Jay Bilton and Michael Loftis both added 10 points.
UP NEXT: The Lions will finish the regular season on Wednesday, February 18, when they host Berea College. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
