The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff men's basketball team nearly erased a 21-point second-half deficit, falling to Alabama State 73-67 Saturday in the Dunn-Oliver Acadome.

The Golden Lions (3-15, 2-7 SWAC) had three players score in double figures, led by Joshuwan Johnson, who had 17 points, five assists and four steals. Jalen Lynn added 14 points off the bench and Shaun Doss Jr. chipped in as well with 12 points, eight rebounds and two blocks.

UAPB trailed 61-40 with 9:26 remaining before outscoring Alabama State 27-12 to end the game. Trailing 66-55, a pair of Lynn free throws with 2:14 to play cut the margin to single digits at 66-57. Following an ASU free throw, a pair of free throws by Johnson cut the Golden Lion deficit to 67-59 with 1:56 to play.

The Hornets would continue to extend the lead before UAPB would continue to answer. A Morris dunk with 25 seconds to play cut the deficit to 70-64 with. Following an ASU three-point play, Johnson made a three with just over five seconds remaining for the final margin.

The Golden Lions return to action Monday at 7:30 p.m. at Alabama A&M in game two of a doubleheader with the women. The UAPB Sports Network radio broadcast can be heard on 99.3 FM The Beat, online at uapblionsroar.com/live , and on the free UAPB Athletics App.

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