OTTAWA - The Durham College men's basketball team knew they would have a tough task heading into the weekend against two of the top teams in the OCAA east division, but battled hard and nearly came away with a season sweep of the Algonquin Thunder.

Durham trailed early, down 9-7 after the first quarter and 20-17 at halftime, but took a 36-34 lead after a strong third quarter. After 40 minutes the teams were tied 53-53, forcing overtime.

The hometown Thunder found a way to get their win in the extra period as they knocked off the Lords 61-59.

Christoff Pierre (Brampton, Ont.) led Durham's offence with 17 points, while Rashaun Bennett (Scarborough, Ont.) picked up 11 points and Aaron Hayles (Pickering, Ont.) added 10.

Dylan Pelissero (Ridgeway, Ont.) was huge for the Lords defensively with 19 rebounds, which ties his season-high set Feb. 3 at Fleming.

Murphy Beya had 21 points and 11 rebounds to lead Algonquin with a double-double. Joshua Stacey added 11 points, while Denis Dervisevic led the Thunder with 13 boards.

Durham remains four points back of the Seneca Sting for the final playoff spot in the OCAA east division with the loss. They finish their road trip Sunday afternoon against the La Cité Coyotes before returning home to host the St. Lawrence Vikings on Friday night.

Source: Durham College