February 27, 2016 – ATLANTA – Morehouse downed the Paine College Lions, 72-71, in a nail-biter, to end the regular season at 14-9 (10-8 SIAC).

Maroon Tiger seniors, playing in their final home game, provided most of the firepower, combining for 61 points.

The win avenges last week's 77-70 loss to the Lions, in Augusta, and sets up Morehouse as the #2 East Division seed, in the upcoming SIAC tournament.

Morehouse will play Tuesday, at 9:15 p.m. (CST), against the #7 West Central State Marauders. The Maroon Tigers lost to the Marauders 88-81, in overtime, January 9.

In a game that was close from start to finish and featured eight ties and eight lead changes, Paine posted a first half lead, at 39-33.

A rebound and assist by Michael Scott to Miodrag Minic for a three-pointer, gave the Maroon Tigers a second half lead they would not relinquish. Morehouse built the lead to nine points, but hot shooting by the Lions closed the gap.

Forward Michael Hall led Morehouse in scoring, with 14 points, to go with three rebounds.

Robert Askew just missed a double-double, with 13 points, nine rebounds, three blocks and an assist.

Ayinde Russell, the only non-senior to score, added 11 points, all in the second half.

Javarius Gay chipped in seven points, four rebounds and four steals.

Minic added seven points, four rebounds and three assists.

The SIAC tournament begins Monday, at Birmingham's Bill Harris Arena. For brackets, scores and updates, visit www.thesiac.com.