The St. Lawrence University men's basketball teaam mounted a strong second-half surge but came up short in a 72–68 loss to Union in Friday's Liberty League opener in Schenectady, N.Y. The Saints cut the deficit to two points in the closing minute before Union closed the game with a late basket.

The Saints move to 3–5 overall and 1–1 in Liberty League play.

"We played with more fight tonight and did well to remain in the game right to the final buzzer," said Saints head coach Chris Downs. "We improved as a collective and will be a better team because of it. It's a long year, and we have plenty of games left."

Union opened the game with a 43-point first half, building a double-digit lead at the break while St. Lawrence scored 29. Adam Dudzinski knocked down early threes and collected rebounds, and Chris Downs and Aidan Phelan added scoring, but Union's offensive efficiency created separation heading into halftime.

St. Lawrence responded with a 39-point second half and tightened defensively. The Saints chipped away at the deficit, pulling within 70–68 in the final seconds. Dudzinski, Downs, and Phelan all contributed key baskets during the run before Union converted a late possession to secure the win.

Dudzinski led the Saints with 21 points and eight rebounds, while Downs added 17 points and nine boards. Phelan finished with 10 points, and Parkes contributed on the defensive end and on the glass.
St. Lawrence continues its conference road trip on Saturday with a matchup at RPI.