LOCK HAVEN, Pa. – The Lock Haven men's basketball team overcame a 17-point first half deficit to down Clarion, 70-60, in a Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) East vs. West clash on Friday night (Dec. 6) inside Thomas Fieldhouse. 
 
The Bald Eagles picked up their first victory in the PSAC to improve to 4-5 overall and 1-2 in conference play. Clarion falls to 7-2 overall and 2-1 in the PSAC.
 
After a slow shooting start for Lock Haven, Clarion built a 21-4 lead through the opening 12 minutes of play.
 
However, Lock Haven turned to its second unit, who turned defense into offense and outscored Clarion 28-14 to close out the half and cut its deficit to 34-32 heading into the break.
 
Idris Ali ignited the comeback as he scored 10 points off the bench and helped the Bald Eagles' defense force five turnovers, while limiting Clarion to 5-of-14 shooting from the field. Kevin Coleman manned the inside and chipped in six points.
 
Lock Haven carried the momentum into the second half and took its first lead and outscored Clarion, 10-6, through the opening four minutes to take its first lead, 42-40, with just under 16 minutes to go.
 
The Bald Eagles went full throttle from there and erupted on an 11-0 run over the ensuing five minutes to build their lead to double digits (53-42). Coleman led the way with nine points during the run.
 
Clarion cut its deficit to 59-58 with 2:13 remaining, but the Bald Eagles again responded with a 7-0 run, sparked by a Coleman dunk, to put the game away.
 
Coleman and Ali were the driving force for the Bald Eagles off the bench and combined for 30 points. Coleman secured a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double, while Ali added 13 points and three steals.
 
Isaiah Stewart led the starters with a game-high 26 points, adding five assists and two steals.
 
Eli Washington dished out a game-high seven assists and Blake Deegan added seven rebounds.
 
NEXT UP
The Bald Eagles hit the road to visit PSAC West foe Edinboro on Tuesday (Dec. 17) at 7:30 p.m.