The Tiffin University men's basketball team (2-7, 0-2 G-MAC) dropped a 68-58 decision to Thomas More Saturday afternoon inside the Gillmor Center. The Saints led the entire way and were able to answer every time the Dragons tried to get back into the game. 

The game was tight and close early despite four early turnovers by the Dragons. A three by DJ Gooden tied the game at 12 and that was the last time the Dragons were able to tie it as they were never able to hold an advantage in the game. Following the three by Gooden, the Saints answered with four straight points to take the lead for good.  

Two free throws by Dekyre Fuller cut the lead to one, 20-19, but the Saints answered with a three-pointer to gain their two-possession lead back. Thomas More led 26-21 at halftime despite both teams struggling from the floor. The Saints shot 31 percent while the Dragons shot just 27 percent. 

The Saints immediately took momentum to start the second half, completing an and-one to make it 29-21. A three-point play by Michael Lucarotti made it 34-31 and the Dragons cut it to three again shortly after, but the Saints answered every time with a bucket to make it a two-possession game.  

Thomas More led 46-40 with 8:42 remaining and the Dragons were unable to get any closer. An 8-0 run gave the Saints their biggest lead of the game, 15, 57-42 with 4:30 remaining. The Dragons fouled to extend the game, but the Saints made all six free throws in the final minute to put the game away.  

Fuller and Gooden led the way with 16 points apiece. Lucarotti added 11 points and eight rebounds while KJ Pruitt also grabbed eight rebounds and finished with six points.  

The Dragons finish their four-game homestand next Saturday, December 21 against Davenport to finish nonconference play. Tipoff is set for 3 p.m. inside the Gillmor Center.