PRESCOTT, ARIZ. – Following a ten-day break, the Embry-Riddle men's basketball team came out of the gate and competed well against the top-ranked Arizona Christian Firestorm. The Eagles held a lead during the first few minutes of the second half, but eventually dropped the New Year's Eve matinee to ACU on Saturday.

Embry-Riddle led 16-13 with 11:56 remaining in the first half, but an 11-0 run by Arizona Christian allowed the Firestorm to grab a lead they would never get back. Despite fighting hard, and getting within 11 points in the second half, a tough shooting stretch before halftime put the Eagles in a tough spot in the final 20 minutes.

The Eagles had three players score in double figures, with game-leader Jake Klingler putting in 18 points. Klingler made five of his nine three-point attempts, was a perfect 3-for-3 from the free throw line, and put in 12 of those points in the first half.

Conner Verdugo proved to be an excellent all-around player on Saturday, scoring 16 points, grabbing seven rebounds and dishing out six assists. Conner Verdugo also had a pair of steals, and shot 60% from the field.

Chase Verdugo was the third Eagle to score in double digits, putting up 11 points off the bench. Chase Verdugo also grabbed four rebounds, dished out three assists and had a pair of steals.

Embry-Riddle will not have to wait long to get back on the floor, as they will host Park-Gilbert on Tuesday, January 3. Tipoff from the ERAU Activity Center is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.