Rochester, N.Y. – Despite forward Kai Parris' 'double-double' (26 points, 13 rebounds) the Lehman College men's basketball team fell in its season opener 67-63 to Utica University in the opening semifinal game of Harold J. Brodie Classic, hosted by Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), at the Clark Memorial Gymnasium on Friday evening.  The Lightning go to a 0-1 overall record, while the Pioneers improved to a 1-0 mark.

Lehman jumped to a 39-32 lead at the intermission after shooting 53 percent from the field.  However, in the second half, the Lightning struggled with just 30 percent field goals to allow the Pioneers' comeback outscoring the visitors 35 to 24 for the victory.

Along with Parris' scoring and rebounds, he also added four assists and blocks for Lehman, while guard Kofi Mends added 16 points with seven boards.

The Lightning compete in the consolation game of the RIT Tournament on Saturday (November 9th) with the winner of the other semifinal between Fitchburg State and hosts.