Johnson State College men's basketball fell 64-58 to visiting Maine Maritime Academy in North Atlantic Conference (NAC) play Friday evening in Carter Gymnasium. The Badgers move to 3-19 on the year and 3-12 in conference play while MMA slides to 3-19 overall and 3-13 in the NAC.
The Mariners jumped out to an early lead with help from an opening 21-6 run, highlighted by six points from Nick Holt, to give the visitors a sturdy foundation for the remaining 10 minutes of first half play. The Badgers continued to lag behind their opponents seeing MMA finish the half up 35-17.
In the second half the Mariners led by as much as 20 points at the top of the second half, but the Badgers were determined to chip away at the lead. Johnson closed the gap and even took the lead with 3:58 to go in the half, but the Mariners hung on to pick up the victory.
Tyler Gilson led the Mariners with 14 points and seven rebounds, while Zachary Radcliffe ended the evening with 13 points, and two rebounds. Nick Holt chipped in with 11 points, two rebounds, an assist and a steal.
Johnson stays home Saturday to host Husson University for a 12:00pm game while MMA will travel to Lyndon for a 1:00pm tip.