Grambling, LA---The Grambling State Tigers suffered a heartbreaking loss, 64-59, to the Panthers of Prairie View A&M tonight in the GSU Fred C. Hobdy Arena.

 

Facing the second place team in the Southwestern Athletic Conference race the Tigers came out firing on all cylinders and opened a seven point lead, 10-3, with 16:03 to play in the first half. The teams battled back and forth through seven ties and seven lead changes before the Tigers staked a, 34-32, lead at the half.

 

The second half mirrored the first with back and forth action that once again led to seven ties and Grambling holding a lead 58-57 with 2:27 remaining in the game. The Panthers however would retake the lead for good at 61-59 with 36-seconds left in the game.

 

Grambling was led by Ariece Perkins 18 points. Donald Qualls poured in 17 points with seven rebounds; while Lance Fuertado added 12 points and seven rebounds. George Akapele had 11 rebounds and five blocked shots.

 

PVU's Darnell Hugee had a game high 19 points with Duwan Kornegay adding 16 points and five rebounds.

 

The Tigers will return to action Saturday when they travel to Jackson, MS to face the Tigers of Jackson State. Tip-off is set for 5:30 pm.