ROCK ISLAND, Ill. -- The men's basketball team performed admirably on Friday night in the first round of the NCAA tournament, but they fell short 123-112 in their upset attempt against Augustana.

Greenville opened the game by scoring the first seven points and continued to make Augustana play catch up through the first half.

The Panthers led by 19, 49-30, with just over six minutes remaining in the first half, and Greenville took a 67-54 advantage to halftime.

In the second half, Augustana gradually chipped away at their deficit and finally took their first lead of the game with 8:06 to go in the contest.

The Panthers eventually fell behind by 16 points with just over three minutes to play, but they whittled it down to seven before settling for the 12 point defeat.

The Panthers were led in scoring by Sonti Grady and Isiah Price with 18 points.  Josias Parker posted 16 points.

Despite fouling out, Johari Dix ended with 14 points, seven rebounds, and three steals.

Teammate Vari Bonney ended with 11 points, nine rebound, and three steals.

Greenville (19-9) ended their season with their first appearance in the NCAA tournament after its second SLIAC tournament title all-time.