The Youngstown State University men's basketball team returned to the court Saturday afternoon after a week-long holiday break. They welcomed in conference foe Detroit Mercy into the Beeghly Center for their fourth Horizon League game of the season.

The Penguin's offensive got off to a fast start in the first half, going on a 23-3 run. The Titans battled back, but YSU had a 38-23 lead at halftime. 

In the second half, YSU jumped out to a 23-point lead. The Titans did not go away, cutting it to 10 with less than eight minutes to play. The Penguins continued to apply pressure on the offensive and defensive ends, holding off a late-game comeback.

EJ Farmer led the team with 16 points. Gabe Dynes scored 12, and Nico Galette added 10. Cris Carroll led with 10 rebounds and had eight points. 

 

 YSU went on to win their seventh straight game and finished the month of December undefeated, with a 73-64 win over Detroit Mercy. 

They will enter 2025 with a 9-5 record and are first in the Horizon League at 4-0. 

Youngstown State will play at noon on New Year's Day at IU Indy.