Despite a strong second quarter, where they outscored Laurentian 19-14, the Ridgebacks were unable to maintain their momentum. Emmanuel Okonkwo led Ontario Tech with a game-high 16 points and three blocks, while Raeshaun Ambris contributed 14 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.

Laurentian set the tone early, holding a commanding 11-point lead by the end of the first quarter. Ismael Konate paced the Voyageurs with 13 points and nine rebounds, while Daniel Muila-Mwaka dominated the boards, pulling down 12 rebounds.

The Ridgebacks clawed back to trail by just three at halftime, and held the Voyageurs to just eight points in the third frame, but Ontario Tech fell short of finding the final push to put them in the drivers seat going into the fourth quarter.

The Ridgebacks will be back at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre when they take on the Queen's Gaels on Wednesday, January 15.