IRVINE, Calif. – The Concordia University Irvine men's basketball team came up just short in a tightly contested PacWest Conference matchup, falling 59–56 to Vanguard University on Thursday night at CU Arena.

The Golden Eagles went toe-to-toe with the Lions in a back-and-forth battle that featured nine ties and 22 lead changes, but Vanguard used a strong second half to secure the road victory.

MaCarhy Morris led Concordia with a game-high 17 points, shooting 7-of-16 from the field while adding three assists in 38 minutes. Nick Corbett contributed on both ends of the floor, finishing with seven points, six rebounds, and a block. Off the bench, Ben Krystkowiak provided a spark, knocking down both of his three-point attempts on his way to seven points.

Concordia found early success with a balanced offensive effort, shooting 52 percent from the field in the first half to build a 31–23 halftime lead. The Golden Eagles also forced 13 Vanguard turnovers and held the Lions without a made three-pointer in the opening half, limiting Vanguard's scoring opportunities and forcing the Lions to score inside.

Vanguard responded after the break, outscoring Concordia 36–25 in the second half while shooting 52 percent from the field. The Lions finished with a 37–25 rebounding advantage and scored 36 points in the paint, which proved decisive down the stretch.

With the loss, CUI moved to 8–5 overall and 5–2 in PacWest play, currently ranking in third place in the conference standings.

CLICK HERE for the updated CUI men's PacWest Standings

The Golden Eagles are back in action as the second part of the PacWest doubleheader this Saturday, Jan. 10 at 7:15 p.m. against Point Loma. 

CLICK HERE for the full CUI men's basketball schedule