LANCASTER, Calif. - Simpson University men's basketball couldn't hold off a late run from the Antelope Valley Pioneers in a 84-80 loss.

In the first half, the Red Hawks forced Antelope Valley to slow down and run their half-court offense, which is where Simpson's defense is at its best. Simpson only allowed 38 points in the first half and held the Pioneers to 43 percent from the floor.

The Red Hawks were in control most of the night and had an eight point lead with 4 minutes to go, when a 7-0 run enabled the Pioneers to come back late in the second half. Simpson was unable to connect on a field goal in the last four minutes of the contest.

The Red Hawks had one of their most balanced scoring attacks of the year finishing with a season-high 24 bench points. Four players were in double figures led by Josh Brakkee and Joseph Bosetti, who had 16 each.

Antelope Valley had an impressive night taking care of the ball, coughing up the orange only 10 times, while recording 19 assists.

Simpson falls to 1-3 in conference play and will gear up for a road matchup with Pacific Union College on January 14th at 8:30 pm inside the Covered Wagon.