PAINESVILLE, Ohio — The Lake Erie College Storm Men's basketball team battled on day two of the GMAC/GLIAC Challenge tournament at home against the Ferris State University Bulldogs. Despite being down 11 in the first half, the Storm would battle back to force overtime, but would ultimately fall 80-76 in the final minutes. This loss brings their record to 0-2 for the 2023-2024 season. 

Lake Erie ended the game shooting 30 of 67 as a team with a 48% field goal rating. The Storm grabbed a total of 41 boards on the night. In the first half, the Storm found themselves behind 26-15 as the Bulldogs seemed to be taking the game. However, the Storm rallied playing tough defense and were able to close the gap ending the half with a score of 34-29. 

The Bulldogs were never able to separate themselves from the Storm as the second half progressed, Lake Erie erased their deficit entirely, tying the game at 68 with 2:18 left. A series of turnovers from both teams and missed shots would result in overtime. Lake Erie was able to outscore the Bulldogs in the second half 39-34 to force overtime. 

The Storm took the early lead in overtime after a three from Jacob Plantz and a layup from Jonny Manning. However, after consecutive missed free throws down the stretch  by the Storm, the Bulldogs were able to  answer back and take the lead.  Free throw shooting would prove to be the downfall for the Storm as they shot 9-21 from the line overall, and 1-5 in OT. 

The Storm had four players finish in double digit  scoring with Manning recording a double-double with a team-high 18 points on 7-14 shooting. Manning also recorded a team-high 11 rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block in a team high 40 minutes of action. Josh Irwin and Jake Leibacher would both reach new collegiate bests in points scored: Leibacher with 14 and Irwin with 11. Irwin also added six boards in the contest. Jacob Plantz would finish with 16 of his own and recorded his 1,000th career point in the contest for his time at Lake Erie College. Plantz also finished with eight rebounds, four assists, and two steals on the night.

The Storm continue to look for their first win of the season as they face off against the Clarion Golden Eagles at the Jerome T. Osborne Family Athletic & Wellness Center on Tuesday, November 14th. Tip off is at 7pm.