LocalSportsJournal.com

The Muskegon Community College men’s basketball team entered Wednesday’s season finale with a chance to finish in a tie for a conference title, but it wasn’t to be.

The Jayhawks dropped an 88-83 decision to Lansing Community College at Bartels-Rode Gymnasium. They finished the regular season with a 20-8 overall record and a 10-6 league mark.

Jayhawks’ Aaron Syndor (3) gets fouled driving through the lane.  Photo/Eric Sturr

MCC’s Aaron Syndor (3) gets fouled driving through the lane. Photo/Eric Sturr

MCC finished in third place in the Michigan Community College Athletic Association’s Western Conference. The Jayhawks will open postseason tournament play Tuesday at home against Ancilla College at 7:30 p.m.

The Jayhawks trailed 45-43 at halftime, then hurt themselves with 34 percent shooting in the second half, including a very cold 15 percent from 3-point range.

“I thought we played and competed as hard as we have all year,” said MCC Coach Dave Schlump. “We just couldn’t convert at the rim during a couple stretches when we were able to get consecutive stops, to extend or regain the lead.

“But I am proud of my guys. And I’m proud of my guys for putting themselves in a position to host a home tournament game. Not bad for a group as young as these guys are.”

Eddie Tornes collected 26 points, 14 rebounds and four assists for the Jayhawks. Justin Kennedy also had a double-double with 10 points, 13 rebounds to go along with six blocks.

Deshawn Sanders added 14 points, Aaron Sydnor scored 11 and Will Roberson had 10 points and four assists for MCC.