FOND DU LAC, Wis. - Marian University men's basketball (8-9, 7-5 NACC) led 31-27 at the half but Rockford managed to rally in the second half defeating the Sabres 66-60.

The first half was tight from the start but Marian used a 7-3 run in the final 2:45 to take the halftime lead.  The Sabres out shot the Regents going 13-35 (.371) from the field in the opening half led by junior Tyrese Pinson who had 10 points.

After senior Alex Manhardt cut the deficit down to 33-32 at the 16:31 mark of the second half Rockford went on a quick 8-3 run that gave the Regents a seven-point advantage.  This small run played a key role as the Regents were able to build a comfortable lead that they held the remainder of the game.

The Regents built their lead up to 11 points before the Sabres used an 11-4 run to trim the deficit to 64-60 with 54 seconds remaining following a three-pointer from freshman Tristan Van Ess.  The rally was too late, however, as the Regents held the Sabres off the scoreboard the remainder of the game.

The Sabres held a 47-42 advantage in rebounds despite the Regents out scoring Marian 40-32 in the paint. 

Manhardt led the Sabres with 13 points and six rebounds as he joined the 500-career rebound club.  Pinson also had 13 points to go with four assists and three steals, while Van Ess had 12 points with a team-high seven rebounds.

Marian hits the road traveling to MSOE looking for a season sweep of the Raiders Tuesday, Jan. 23 for a 7 p.m. tip.

--FightBlueFight--