The University of Toronto Varsity Blues men's basketball team played their second game of a back-to-back against OUA Central division leading Lakehead Thunderwolves on Saturday (Feb. 8) night, ending their road trip with a 71-74 loss.

Tonight's matchup was physical, with huge defensive efforts by both teams and major defensive adjustments made by U of T. Despite falling to a fourteen-point deficit in the second quarter, Toronto stayed disciplined by claiming the offensive glass, providing themselves put-back opportunities, and taking advantage of Lakehead turnovers. The Blues shot 47 percent from the floor and outscored the Thunderwolves 21-19 in the second quarter, closing the deficit to just four points going into the third. The Blues opened the second-half maintaining this aggressiveness, outrebounding Lakehead 33-26, 12 of which on the offensive glass. The Blues captured their first lead midway through the third quarter but despite their best efforts, Lakehead's 19 free throws pushed them forward to claim the win.

The Blues had four players in double-digit points, starting strong with a career double-double from first-year point-guard Rohan Scott-Smith, who notched a career-high 16 points and 10 assists with six rebounds, shooting 53.8 percent from the field. Scott-Smith was supported by fourth-year centre Lennart Weber with 17 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Finally, fourth- and second-year forwards Quarry Whyne and Simeon Jeffers notched 13 and 15 points respectively, with Whyne adding nine boards. 

Lakehead was lead by Nathan Bilamu who had 26 points and Harold Santacruz with 18 points and nine rebounds.

Up next, the Blues travel to Hamilton, Ont. to face the McMaster Marauders for an 8 p.m. tip-off on Wednesday (Feb. 12) evening. The game will be streamed via oua.tv.