LAKEWOOD — With so many lead changes, this game could have been taken by anyone. But in the end, the Lakewood Cougars were defeated in their final non-conference game against the Borderites of Blaine, 40-38.

The game came down to the last possession as Cougar Blair Diamond was fouled at the three-point arc with 15 seconds left on the clock. After making two, he purposely missed the third, hoping a Lakewood rebounder would grab it. Unfortunately, Blaine gained possession of the ball and ran out the clock.

After a rocky 15-8 first quarter, the Cougs countered and led at halftime 24-23. Blaine came back with another run, and never looked back. Junior Joseph Hawkins led the Cougs with 14 points, as juniors Diamond had six rebounds and Shanan Bird came up with three steals.

Lakewood’s final non-conference game transferred over to their first conference game against the Knights of King’s High School, which they lost 51-35. Cameron Fry led the Cougars with 14 points. The Lakewood boys play Archbishop Murphy next at home Jan. 16 at 7 p.m.