Box Score Duluth, MN - Damon Smith scored a game-high 23 points and Josh Turner added 20 for the University of Mary but a furious second half rally fell just short in the closing minute of a 79-75 loss at the University of Minnesota Duluth. Down by as many as 13, the Marauders pulled within two points but could not finish the comeback.

Trailing by 13 with almost eight minutes left in the game, the Marauders began an 18-7 run to pull within two points. A fastbreak basket by Jalen Jaspers and a three-pointer by Mike Johnson got the Marauders started.

After two free throws for UMD, Smith hit two free throws and a jumper and Jaspers hit two free throws to climb within six points. Josh Turner then nailed a three-pointer with 1:19 remaining in the game and the Marauders were within two points.

The Marauders looked poised to gain control of the ball with an opportunity to pull even or to take the lead on a missed field goal attempt by the Bulldogs. However, a jump ball was called and UMD maintained possession. Forced to foul, the Marauders sent Ryan Rasmussen to the line and he converted both free throw attempts. Alex Dorr hit a layup with eight seconds remaining in the game but it would be the last time U-Mary would get with two points. Rasmussen hit two more free throws to cement the UMD win.

Smith led all players with 23 points and nine rebounds. He was 10-of-15 from the field and had two assists and two steals. Turner had five treys on his way to 20 points.

Jaspers hit 7-of-8 free throws on his way to 15 points. Off the bench Mike Johnson had four assists and scored his first collegiate points.

Brett Ervin led the Bulldogs with 18 points. Jake Hottensstine added 17 and Rasmussen had 15.

U-Mary falls to 2-7 overall and 1-4 in the Northern Sun. UMD improves to 6-3 and 3-2. The Marauders next play at Bemidji State University on December 17, 2009.

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