BEAUMONT, Texas – Lamar University junior Rob Lee, Jr., scored 24 points to guide the Cardinals to a second half comeback and force overtime but Lamar would fall to Omaha in the extra frame, 85-82, Saturday evening at the Neches Federal Credit Union Arena.
 
The loss, Lamar's fourth consecutive, drops Big Red to 5-6 overall as the Cardinals now turn their attention to Southland Conference play full time.
 
The Cardinals were 32-of-69 (.464) from the field but converted just three triples on the night. Lamar won the battle on the glass outrebounding their guests, 38-29, with a 16-7 advantage on offense rebounds (which led to a 21-10 advantage in second chance points). The Cardinals also forced their guests into 14 turnovers which led to 17 points.
 
Unfortunately, Omaha jumped out a quick start and never really slowed down. The Mavericks ended the night 28-of-54 (.519) and shot at least 50 percent in both halves. Omaha also knocked down nine three-pointers (9-of-26) and converted 20-of-25 attempts from the free throw line.
 
Lee was joined in double-figures by sophomore Braden East who recorded his fourth double-double of the season. East finished the night with 17 points and 14 rebounds.
 
The Cardinals trailed by as many as 15 points in the second half before rallying to force overtime. Lamar closed regulation on a 21-8 run (in the final 7:27) and took a two-point lead in the extra frame but Omaha rallied to score the next six points and held off LU down the stretch.


The Cardinals now return to action Monday, Dec. 29, when they travel to Natchitoches, La. to face Northwestern State. The game against the Demons will tip off at 6:30 p.m. from Prather Coliseum.