GREENVILLE, Ill. - The men's basketball team faced a tough challenge on Saturday at home when first place Fontbonne came to town for a conference tilt. The Griffins defeated Greenville 124-111 and maintained first place in the SLIAC standings.

Fontbonne held a 64-47 lead after the first half, and the Panthers outscored the Griffins 64-60 in the second half.

Julius Erby, who recently rejoined the Panther squad, ended as GU's top scorer with 16 points and a team-high seven rebounds.

Romello Ball provided 14 points and tied Nick Bouye for the team lead with three steals.

Kenneth Cooley had 13 points in the effort, Jarred Johnson and Chris Jackson added 11 points, and Everett Campbell posted 10 points. Campbell also added seven assists.

Greenville outrebounded Fontbonne in the game with a 40-35 lead, including a difference of 18-3 on the offensive glass.

The Panthers (2-19, 1-9 SLIAC) will go to Westminster on Wednesday as they attempt to collect some additional conference wins and confidence heading into the SLIAC tournament.