NEILSVILLE, FL - The Southeastern Louisiana University men's basketball team rallied from an 18-point second half deficit to take the lead against the Western Michigan Broncos at the Emerald Coast Classic Friday afternoon, but the Lions were unable to rally back to tie the game with 4.5 seconds left. The Lions ultimately fell to the Broncos, 68-67, at Raiders Arena at Northwest Florida State University.

The Lions (1-for-4) got off to a hot start, taking a 12-6 lead on a three-pointer by Avery Wilson. However, Western Michigan (1-4) went on a mini 11-2 run to take its first lead of the game. The Broncos led by as many as 10 points in the first half, but Southeastern closed the gap to 26-24 at halftime.

Western Michigan extended its lead to 18 points early in the second half, but the Lions made a comeback. Southeastern went on a 12-0 run to close the gap to one, eventually taking a 62-56 lead with 5:20 left in the game.

Western Michigan took the lead on a jumper with 4.5 seconds left in the game. Southeastern had a chance to win the game at the final whistle, but their shot fell short.

Southeastern got 14 points from Canoville and 12 from Wilson. McFarland had nine points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals. Eastmont had five points, four assists and three steals. Caldwell had seven points, six rebounds and one cap. Wood had seven points, five rebounds and two assists. Paez also had seven points, two assists and a steal.

Western Michigan's BJ Harrison had 19 points, five rebounds and four assists. Jaylen Sims scored 12 points. javonta Turner had eight points and six rebounds. marquise Hastings had seven points and four assists.

Southeastern will play Tennessee State next Saturday.