Newton, MA - The Lasell University Lasers defeated the Anna Maria AMCATS on Saturday by a final score of 78-71, moving to 11-6 on the season and 5-1 in GNAC play. The AMCATS are now 6-12 and 1-6.

The Lasers started out fast, grabbing a 14-2 lead just three minutes into the game. Lasell would extend the lead to as many as 20 with three minutes remaining. But a quick 10-0 run gave the AMCATS all the momentum, and they trailled by just 10 in the closing seconds of the first half. Just as the first half buzzer was about to go off, Karim Belhouchet made a three pointer from just inside the half court line, giving the Lasers a 48-35 lead at the half.

The AMCATS made it a game in the second half, using a 6-0 run early in the half to get within single digits. But everytime the AMCATS would inch closer, the Lasers had an answer in the form of a defensive stop or basket. The Lasers would go up 67-50 with eight minutes remaining, but the AMCATS did not go away quietly. They used a 16-2 run over the next four minutes to make it a one possession game. But the Lasers did not break, and would hold on for a 78-71 win.

It was a full team effort by the Lasers, with four double-digit scorers. They were led by Marcus Lewis' 20 points, who was followed by Che Hanks (16), Conan McCusker (12), and Gabe Qua (10). Qua fell a rebound short of a double-double with nine rebounds, and added two blocks. Karim Belhouchet led the team with five assists, and added six points.

Up Next - The Lasers will travel to Rivier on Wednesday to take on the Raiders at 7pm.