Mariners Men's Basketball began their second circuit of Bay Valley Conference play on Friday with an away game at Merritt College in Oakland. The Thunderbirds jumped out to an early lead over Marin, and did not look back in a 101-71 Merritt win.

The Mariners were hindered by an ankle injury to point guard JT Robinson that sidelined him for much of the game, and limited the visiting team's ability to run their offense. Merritt scored early and often as the Mariners were unable to match the energy and athleticism of the Thunderbirds. Marin fell behind by 16 at the end of 20 minutes as Merritt held a 44-28 lead.

The second half was a bit better for Marin as the offense awoke, enabling them to score 43 points, however Merritt was even better, pouring in 57 of their own to top the 100 point mark and sending the Mariners back home with a 101-71 defeat.

Marin and Merritt were polar opposites when it came to shooting the basketball. Merritt Shot 54% from the field and 50% from three point range while Marin managed only 39% from the floor and a scant 22% from three point land. JT Robinson, Leroy Jackson and Derek Morgan scored 16 points each for the Mariners while Tim Jordan led Merritt with 22 points and 12 rebounds.

Marin's Head Coach Scott Thom had much to say on the game, "We didn't shoot the ball as good as earlier in the week versus Napa, this combined with foul trouble early in the game and losing JT Robinson to an injury made for a long night.   On nights when you don't shoot the ball like you're capable of, it puts a premium on your defense which we are working to improve on. We need to have two good practices leading up to Wednesday's game vs Mendocino. We'll watch film and keep working to get better."

Marin hosts Mendocino College on Wednesday at 7:30 in Kentfield.