ROCHESTER, Mich. - Despite a strong first half, the Golden Grizzlies fell against the Robert Morris Colonials, 79-71, today inside the OU Credit Union O'rena.

Leading the Golden Grizzlies (5-11, 2-3 HL) was the duo of Buru Naivalurua and Allen Mukeba. Naivalurua recorded a double-double and brought in 10 rebounds while tying a season-high 18 points. Mukeba was efficient as well, scoring 13 points while coming away with six rebounds.

The Colonials (10-6, 2-3 HL) had three players in the double-digits for points, as Kam Woods led the team with 29 points. Amarion Dickerson led the Colonials with 10 boards as Alvaro Folgueiras was behind with nine.

Oakland started the game off with a lot of energy and momentum coming back from a win on Thursday. Malcolm Christie put the Golden Grizzlies on the board first with a three-pointer to open the game. Naivalurua followed with four points for Oakland and knocked down two free throws after being fouled. The game remained tight, with neither team leading by more than two points, until Woodrich tied it at 14-14 with a three-pointer off an assist from Jones.

Robert Morris' offense took a four-point lead with 10 minutes remaining in the first half, but Isiah Jones answered with a layup, followed by Cooper Craggs adding another strong layup, bringing Oakland within two. Oakland's offense continued to work well together as Christie hit another three-pointer, closing the gap to 22-20. Mukeba followed up with a layup to give Oakland a two-point lead over the Colonials with seven minutes remaining. Brothers Isaiah Jones and Jaylen Jones then hit consecutive three-pointers, extending Oakland's lead to 28-24.

With the first half coming to a close, Robert Morris continued to push, however, the Golden Grizzlies' offense proved strong as they extended their lead and ended the first half with a score of 39-32.

Oakland came out of the second half with high energy. After winning the tip-off, they quickly fed the ball to Naivalurua, who slammed home a dunk. Christie then followed up with a deep three-pointer, keeping the momentum going on the court.

As the second half progressed, Robert Morris ramped up their defense and started to rally, eventually tying the game midway through the period. With Oakland struggling to find an opportunity to score, the Colonials took the lead by two, 51-49, with 13 minutes remaining. Christie then scored his third three of the game assisted by Naivalurua, putting the game at a one-point difference. Mukeba played a key offensive role, contributing 3 points with a smooth layup followed by a free throw, keeping the game tight.

Despite Oakland's efforts, the Colonials gained a five point lead, at 59-54, with only seven minutes remaining in the game. Robert Morris continued to expand their lead and remained up by five with a little over a minute to play.

As the game neared its end, Oakland found themselves unable to mount a comeback and ultimately lost to the Colonials, 79-71.

Oakland will look to bounce back Thursday (Jan. 9) as it heads to Wright State to face the Raiders, with tip-off set for 7:00 p.m. ET live on ESPN+. All Oakland games this season will be live streamed through audio via 97.1HD-3, The Bet1270 AM (WXYT-AM) & the Audacy App with Neal Ruhl on the call.