OTTAWA, Ont. - The Durham Lords battled for a commanding 81-68 victory over the Algonquin Wolves on the road, improving to 12-0 on the season.

Ranked fifth in the nation, the Lords set the tone early, outscoring Algonquin 26-16 in the first quarter. 

Mark Stoop delivered an exceptional performance, leading the team with 15 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks in 32 minutes of play. His fourth-quarter heroics, where he scored nine points, sealed the victory for the Lords.

Javade Marne was an offensive spark for Durham, contributing 12 points on 6-for-9 shooting. His efficient scoring was complemented by a strong defensive effort, recording three steals to disrupt Algonquin's rhythm. Rashane Smith matched Marne with 12 points, adding a pair of blocks and a rebound, further solidifying Durham's interior presence.

Rudy Fakih was instrumental in orchestrating the offence, tallying nine assists to go along with 10 points and two rebounds. Fakih's court vision allowed Durham to maintain a balanced attack, with five players scoring in double figures. 

Jasean Elliott added 11 points, including two three-pointers, while Caleb Carter chipped in five points and three assists in a supporting role. Max Voorpool came off the bench with seven points in 15 minutes of play.

Defensively, the Lords excelled by forcing Algonquin into 11 turnovers while committing just seven themselves. The team's discipline was evident in their ability to capitalize on Algonquin's mistakes, scoring 11 points off turnovers. Durham's bench also made a significant impact, contributing 21 points to ensure the team's depth remained a strength.

Although Algonquin made a third-quarter push, outscoring the Lords 25-14, Durham responded with a strong defensive fourth quarter, limiting the Wolves to just nine points. The Lords' ability to regain control late in the game demonstrated their resilience and composure under pressure.

The Lords will spend the night in Ottawa with a game set for 3:00 PM on Saturday against the La Cité Coyotes.

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