FOND DU LAC, Wis. – Alex Stecker scored a team-high 20 points and handed out five assists as the Marian men's basketball team dropped an 80-70 decision versus Rockford in Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference action played Saturday afternoon at Sadoff Gymnasium.

The Sabres dominated the first half and went into the break with a 37-31 lead. The Blue and White used a tenacious defense to keep the Regents at bay. MU forced 12 turnovers and held RU to 31 percent (10-of-32) from the field.

RU opened the second stanza with an 18-6 run that lasted over five minutes. MU gradually clawed their way back and a Ryan Biffert bucket with 3:44 remaining brought the Sabres to within one at 66-65.

RU (6-3, 3-2 NACC) won the game at the charity stripe and connected on 20-of-25 free throws. Meanwhile, the Sabres struggled and converted on 10-of-22 trips to the line.

Despite the setback, the Sabres only turned the ball over six times. As a team MU shot 40 percent (28-of-69) from the floor.

Josh Creed scored 13 points and grabbed seven rebounds, while Montrell Hobbs helped out with 12 points.

Biffert came off the bench to score nine points.

Michael Murray scored a game-high 25 points to lead the Regents.

MU (4-5, 1-4 NACC) returns to the court next Saturday and plays host to Benedictine.