Morrow, GA--- The Clayton State University men's basketball team hosted Columbus State University on Saturday evening. The Lakers fell to Cougars 97-87.

Following a delay in the tip-off, the energy was high inside The Loch as both teams came out in the first half trading made baskets. DJ Wright got the scoring going for the Lakers with a good jumper inside the paint. Joe Thomas followed that basket with a 3 pointer of his own to bring the Lakers up by 1. As the half went on both teams found success making baskets at all areas of the floor. As the first half concluded, the game was tied at 45.

Halftime: Clayton State 45, Columbus State 45

As the second half started, the Cougars saw the first basket of the half. Thomas got the scoring going for the Lakers in the second half with a good jumper in the paint. As the half went on, the Lakers struggled with turnovers and fouls that resulted in made shots and free throws that saw the lead grow for the Cougars. The small lead did not stop the Lakers from competing. The Lakers were aggressive behind the 3 point line seeing made threes from Thomas, Bell, Young, and Wright. The Lakers tried to make a comeback happen but ultimately it was Cougars that came away with the win 97-87.

Final Score: Columbus State 97, Clayton State 87

Quick Hits

• Joe Thomas led the scoring for the Lakers with 23 points
• JoJo Bell had a double double with 18 points and 11 rebounds
• The Lakers had 4 players in double digits Bell 18, Wright 17, Young 14
• The Lakers shot 83% from the free throw line

Whats Next?
The Lakers (0-10) travel to Americas, GA to face Georgia Southwestern State University on Wednesday, December 17^th. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:45pm.

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