Presque Isle, ME – The Owls men's basketball team hosted North Atlantic Conference opponent Northern Vermont – Lyndon in their first game of their back to back. A hot start on the defensive end led to a big lead early, as the Owls were able to hold off a late game Hornets run, Owls win 86-80.

The Owls defense early, gave the Hornets some problems, coming out to a 15-1 lead in the first four minutes of the game. UMPI continued to push their lead early on, stretching it to 30-7 with 13:30 left in the first half. The play stayed even for the remainder of the first, as the Owls went into the locker room up 46-29.

The Hornets did not quit, coming out of the half with a quick 16-3 run in the first six minutes of play, bringing the Owls lead to just four. Another quick spirt from Lyndon allowed them to tie the game 54 all with just under 11 minutes to go. The Owls quickly regained the lead, and despite the back and forth play, UMPI never gave up the lead and were able to gradually bring the lead to nine with just under three to go. Some clutch free throws by the Owls at the end of the game, allowed them to hold onto the lead.

Shyquinn Dix (Jr. Stamford, CT) led all scorers with 22 points and finishing 8-8 from the free throw line. DeAndre Duncombe (Jr. Port St. Lucie, FL) finished with 18 points off 7-15 shooting while going a perfect 4-4 from the free throw line. Griffin Guerrette (So. Presque Isle, ME) finished with 17 points and five rebounds. Te'Von Hines (Sr. Alexandria, VA) finished with 14 points four rebounds and five assists while shooting just under 50% from the field.

The Owls will finished their back to back with Lyndon tomorrow, Saturday February 1 for a 3:00PM tip off.