TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Saint Leo men's basketball team battled until the final buzzer but came up just short in a 66-63 road exhibition loss to Florida A&M on Tuesday afternoon at the Al Lawson Center.

The Lions showcased a balanced offensive effort, with four players reaching double figures, while keeping the contest close throughout the afternoon. Saint Leo held a 36-29 advantage at halftime before Florida A&M responded in the second half to secure the three-point victory.

Junior Luther Smith Jr. led the Green and Gold with a game-high 24 points, shooting 8-of-14 from the field and 10-of-11 from the free-throw line. He also pulled down two rebounds and recorded one assist in 38 minutes of action.

Junior Jaylan McElroy added 12 points, eight rebounds and an assist, shooting 5-of-6 from the field. Senior Cooper Frith contributed 5 points, six assists and four rebounds, while freshman Ethan Bevis chipped in six points, two assists and three rebounds.

The Lions shot 41.5 percent (22-of-53) from the floor and connected on 11 three-pointers. Saint Leo also made its opportunities count at the free-throw line, converting 8-of-14 attempts.

Florida A&M finished with a 66-63 edge, using a 37-point second half to overcome the Lions' halftime lead. The Rattlers shot 40 percent from the field and were led by Joel Mokweza, who scored 17 points. Daisean Williford added 15 points and 10 rebounds.

Saint Leo finished with 33 rebounds and 13 assists, while forcing 13 turnovers. The Lions also recorded 10 second-chance points and continued to compete down the stretch in a tightly contested match up.