Clinging to a slim lead late in a rivalry game against Northern Michigan, Lake Superior State's Omar Suleiman blocked two jump shots, eliminating any chance of a late Cat comeback.

That's how you deliver with defense in the clutch.

The Lakers (12-11, 6-8 GLIAC) beat the Northern Michigan Wildcats (20-4, 11-3 GLIAC) 71-68 on Saturday afternoon at Vandament Arena in Marquette, MI. LSSU earned a key result in the GLIAC standings in the chase for a playoff spot, while putting a massive dent in Northern's title hopes.

Suleiman scored 14 points, but the late blocks were his most significant contributions to the Laker victory. Cal Klesmit's three, late in the shot clock from the top of the arc, was knocked away with 1:04 left in the game. Then, Jackson Dudek's corner three was rejected with 51 seconds remaining. Lake State pushed a three point game to a six point lead in the dying seconds, keeping the margin at two possessions until NMU hit a layup as time expired.

Nino Carter-Smith scored 18 points to lead the Lakers in the rivalry win, hitting 5-of-9 shots including a trio of three-pointers. Karter Richards scored 16 points, grabbed six rebounds, tallied an assist and stole the ball once. The redshirt freshman had another tremendous outing. He's scored double-figures in seven of his last eight games, earning his way into the starting lineup while attacking defenses relentlessly. The guard is shooting 59.2% from the field this season and gobbling up rebounds relentlessly.

Both teams shot about 42% from the field in a very close game. Lake State hit 10 three-pointers and outscored NMU 18-4 in the fastbreak game. The Lakers trailed by six early in the second half, but Drew Hess and Carter-Smith tripled quickly to get the game tied 36-36 with 15:49 left. A Richards free throw put the Lakers on top, and the team never relinquished its advantage.

Dylan Kuehl scored 26 for the Wildcats, but registered seven turnovers. LSSU scored 18 points off of 12 NMU turnovers in the game.

Tyler Jamison scored 13 points and snatched nine rebounds for the Lakers in the win.

LSSU returns home to face Saginaw Valley State on Thursday, then hosts Ferris State next Monday night for Monday Night Basketball. Get your tickets online or at the Norris Center box office.