ERIE – The Mansfield Mountaineers men’s basketball team competed against Virginia State University (4-3) in the final day of the 41st Annual Ron Wilson Classic hosted by Gannon University. Virginia State out scored the Mounties with a final score of 74-64, on Sunday.

Nasir Brown led the Mounties with 17 points and one assist.

Sterling Scott collected a total of 14 points, seven rebounds and three assists.

Mansfield (0-5) fell behind early as Virginia State opened the game on an 8-0 run.

The Mounties responded with steady scoring from Scott and Juju Pagan and eventually pulled within one at halftime, 33-32, following a late layup by Pagan.

Early in the second half, Virginia State used a series of interior baskets from to rebuild their lead, even as Mansfield cut the margin to one on multiple occasions.

Midway through the half, Brown provided a lift with several strong drives and a pair of key three-point field goals that kept the Mountaineers within striking distance.

However, Virginia State controlled the boards and continued to score inside, steadily extending its advantage.

A late surge from the Trojans pushed the deficit into double digits.

Although LaQuan Byrd converted a three-pointer in the final seconds, Mansfield was unable to overcome Virginia State and ultimately fell, 74-64.

Mountaineers are set to compete on Wednesday, Dec. 3rd, against Bryant & Stratton (Albany), with tip off scheduled for 7:30 p.m. This game will serve as the honoring of our own former Mansfield Alumni for the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) 75 celebration.