By Jim Naprstek, Assistant Sports Information Director

Loras, 85
Concordia Chicago, 67

After two tough road losses, the Loras Men's Basketball team returned to Dubuque for their home opener Saturday against the Concordia University Cougars. So far in the early season, the Duhawks have dropped two games against Illinois Wesleyan and Wheaton, with Illinois Wesleyan being ranked as a preseason #8 in the D3Hoops poll.

Senior Connor Mooney led his troops out to a 44-31 first half lead. Junior Alex Cline was 8-of-10, with three 3 pointers, good enough for 13 points. The Duhawks played good defense, only allowing eight points from Taylor Rawlings for the Cougars.

In the second half, Loras turned on the jets and made it rain from distance. Mooney went a perfect 4-for-4 from three, ending the night with 14 points. After shooting 43% in the first half from beyond the arc, Loras stepped it up and only missed three three-point attempts in the second. The long range shooting would prove to be quite effective as the Duhawks continued to build upon their first half lead, not allowing Concordia to get back into the game.

The highlight of the day came with 6:39 remaining in the second half. Mooney took the dribble towards the basket and floated an alley-oop past Jake Rutan and his man to a wide open Cline who would slide in the layup. All game long, Loras was quick and efficient with their passes, something certainly positive to see this early in the season.

Loras will return to the Athletic & Wellness Center on Monday to take on UW-Eau Claire. Tip-off is set for 7:00PM.