MERCED, CALIF. – The Embry-Riddle men's basketball team put together a great effort in the first half to avoid the game getting out of hand against UC Merced, erasing an nine-point deficit to eventually take the lead before halftime. The contest was within one possession for most of the game, until the Bobcats used a big scoring run over the final 8:38 to send the Eagles to 1-1 in conference play.

Conner Verdugo had a great scoring night, putting up a game-high 19 points and shooting 60% from the field. Conner Verdugo also made three of his four attempts from behind the arc, and hit four free throws.

Christmas Togiai, Jr. was active on the defensive end, nabbing three steals. David Teibo and Dennis Pomazanov were crashing the glass for ERAU, as they finished with six and seven rebounds, respectively.

Embry-Riddle will have a chance to get back over .500 again in Cal Pac play on Sunday when they travel to play Simpson. Tipoff from Redding, Calif. is scheduled for approximately 5:00 p.m. Arizona Time.