Box Score PALATINE, IL-  The Harper College men's basketball team fell to the Kishwaukee Kougars 91-81 in Malta on Tuesday night.

Coming off a tough loss to Morton seven days ago, the Hawks looked to come out with new energy and focus in the first half.  After shooting a season-low 36% from the foul line against the Panthers, the Hawks nailed their first five attempts in the first half against the Kougars.  At the end of the half, Harper was within striking distance, trailing 45-42.  Harper was hot from the field, finishing the first half shooting 49% overall and 50% from three.  Unfortunately for the Hawks, the Kougars took advantage of second chance opportunities, which allowed the Kougars to get off 15 more shots than the Hawks.

The second half saw more of the fast-paced action that ended the first.  Throughout the remainder of the game, the Hawks were called for three technical fouls, resulting in free throws for the Kougars.  Despite another decent shooting half for the Hawks, they were not able to overcome the late deficit and lost by a final score of 91-81.  By the end of the game, there were 6 ties and 8 lead changes.

Freshman Jesse Young kept up his scoring pace by leading the Hawks with 26 points while chipping in 13 rebounds and 7 assists.  Sophomore Joe Gatziolis also finished with a double-double,  finishing with 19 points and 10 rebounds.  Tony Ziccardi tied Young for the team lead with 7 assists of his own.

Next up for the Hawks (2-9) is the home opener on Thursday against North Central JV.  Tip-off is scheduled for 7:15 at Robert Morris University gym in Arlington Heights (2121 Goebbert Rd.)