DUBUQUE, Iowa (Duhawks.com) – The Loras College men's basketball team struggled in their rematch against their rivals, University of Dubuque. The Duhawks were held to their worst shooting performance on the year, 32.8 percent, resulting in their largest loss, 83-57. Loras was led by sophomore Justin VanWambeke, who finished with 16 points and two steals.

The game began in an intense head-to-head fashion like the crowd of over 1,200 had anticipated. The two teams battled trading baskets with no team having much of an edge. That all changed just under the eight minute mark with the score tied at 20.

From that point, Dubuque took over the control of the lead and the game. The Spartans capitalized on four Duhawk turnovers and a cold streak where Loras shot 1-of-8. The Spartans finished the first half on a 21-4 run to take a 41-24 lead into the locker room.

While the Duhawks' offense struggled, shooting 10-of-27, Dubuque hit 16-of-32 from the floor, including 5-of-10 from beyond the arc.

Out of the halftime break, Loras showed signs of life and fought back with a strong showing in the first five minutes thanks to a quick 7-0 run. Staring at a seven-point deficit, Loras lost their momentum as the Spartans responded with a 12-2 to put the game out of reach.

Dubuque's offense continued to roll, running their lead to as much as 27 with 4:44 to play.

Both teams cleared their benches down the stretch and Dubuque capped their season sweep with the 83-57 win.