ERIE, Pa. — Mount Aloysius built an early lead and battled wire-to-wire before coming up just short in a 60–54 setback Saturday afternoon at the Junker Center Gym.

The Mounties controlled much of the first half, shooting efficiently and holding a seven-point advantage at the break. Mount Aloysius connected on nearly 50 percent of its shots in the opening 20 minutes and knocked down four 3-pointers to take a 35–28 lead into halftime.

Troy Tinch (Baltimore, Md., Calvert Hall) led the Mounties with 15 points, shooting 6-for-10 from the field while adding three rebounds. Donovan Bass-Briscoe (Alexandria, Va., Hayfield) recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring the Mount Aloysius effort on both ends of the floor. Senique Jenkins (Columbus, Ohio, Imani Christian ) added 10 points and eight rebounds, while Jordon Nelson (Charlotte, N.C., Hickory Grove) chipped in nine points and five boards.

Mount Aloysius continued to compete defensively in the second half, holding its opponent under 40 percent shooting for the game. The Mounties also won the rebounding battle, finishing with a 40–32 edge and scoring 12 second-chance points.

Despite generating quality looks, Mount Aloysius was unable to find its shooting rhythm in the final 20 minutes, going 0-for-6 from beyond the arc after halftime. Still, the Mounties remained within striking distance throughout, with the game featuring four ties and three lead changes.

The Mounties finished the afternoon shooting 39.6 percent from the field and outscored their opponent in points in the paint, 28–30. Mount Aloysius also limited fast-break opportunities and committed just 11 turnovers.

Mount Aloysius will look to build on its strong first-half performance and rebounding presence as it continues AMCC play.