BANGOR, Maine – The Husson University men's basketball team dropped a hard-fought 82-80 decision to Bates College on Monday night in non-conference action.

Husson (4-5) jumped out early on the Bobcats not trailing the entire first half en route to a 43-39 advantage into the half led by graduate senior Justin Thompson's 10 points.

The Eagles opened up their lead to 50-42, but a strong surge from behind the 3-point arc by Bates pulled the game within 62-57.

Bates (5-3) went on an 8-2 run to take a 70-69 with 6:41 remaining in the second half as both teams traded leads over the final minutes of regulation. 

The Eagles pulled within 81-80 with :18 seconds remaining, but Bates converted 1-2 at the free throw line to extend its lead to 82-80.

Husson had the final possession of the evening, but missed two put back opportunities, one blocked as time ran out.

Thompson led the way for the Eagles with a team-high 19 points, adding eight rebounds and three steals. 

Junior Cam Wood added a double-double with 13 points and game-high 14 rebounds. While senior's DJ Bussey and Justice Kendall each finished with 13 and 12 points, respectively.

The Eagles return to action on Dec. 29 when they travel to the west coast for a 3 p.m. PST meeting with Pomona-Pitzer.