Box Score Pack drop their first conference game this season, ending the longest win streak to start SSAC play since joining the conference in 2010
PULASKI, Tenn. - In a close matchup with Martin Martin Methodist College, the Loyola University New Orleans men's basketball team fell 60-63 tonight at the Curry Christian Life Center.
The Wolf Pack (9-6, 5-1) led a strong second-half comeback effort, but the RedHawks (3-14, 2-4) were able to close out the game on top after a tough defensive performance.
Terry Smith, Jr. and Nick Parker each were able to score effectively in the first half, tallying nine points apiece after the first 20 minutes. The RedHawks only allowed 26.7% (8-30) shooting from the field for the Pack, forcing tough shots inside the arc or long three-pointers, and took a 32-25 lead on Loyola into the halftime break.
In the second half, Loyola's offense was able to get in a better rhythm, shooting 37.9% (11-29) for the half while scoring 35 points.
The Wolf Pack opened up the second half with a 9-3 run capped off by a mid-range jumper from Smith, bringing the Martin Methodist lead to 35-34, setting the stage for the back-and-forth battle that transpired for the rest of the game.
A huge block by Smith on a dunk attempt by Martin Methodist's Keenan Warren would lead to a quick layup by Smith on the other end, tying the game at 45-45 with 9:46 remaining. Loyola would take its first lead of the game shortly after, with two made free throws by Chase Eckholdt.
A layup from Josh Leaney gave the Pack their largest lead of the game at 53-49, but the RedHawks would quickly regain the lead with two free throws and a three pointer.
With just over two minutes remaining, Benjamin Fields converted two free throws to bring the game within two points, but the RedHawks would respond with a bucket of their own.
With just over 30 seconds remaining in the game, Tre'Von Jasmine found Fields down low to bring the score to 58-59. After Martin Methodist converted two free throws on the other end, Parker made a layup to set the game at 60-61 with just over 20 seconds left.
Despite the Pack clawing back, the RedHawks would hold on after hitting a shot with 18 seconds left, bringing the final score to 60-63 and handing Loyola their first conference loss on the season.
Smith led the Wolf Pack in scoring with 17, his fourth consecutive game in double figures, while Parker finished with 13.
Martin Methodist was led by Will Smith who tallied 15 points on the night, with JJ Jones adding 12 points and nine rebounds.
Loyola will be back in action this Saturday, remaining on the road in Tennessee as they face Bethel on January 13th at 4 p.m.
Be sure to follow Wolf Pack Athletics on Facebook at Facebook.com/LoyolaWolfPack and on Twitter and Instagram @LoyolaWolfPack.
