Getting their first career starts were freshman Robert Byrd and sophomore Donald Fondel.  The new look seemed to catch Loyola off guard in first half action, as the Bleu Devils went to work going bucket for bucket with the Wolfpack.  There were seven tie scores before Dillard created some space, taking a four-point lead into the break, 44-41.  Dillard shot 50 percent from the floor, 47 percent from three-point range, and 89 percent from the free throw line in the first period. 

Early in the second half, Bleu Devils went ahead by five points on a rebound and put-back by James Burkes, but the Pack was nipping at their heels and it managed to close the gap with a 54-54 tie by 13:53.  Questionable officiating concerned both teams, but coupled with poor shot selection down the stretch, Dillard was unable to hang on for the win.

All five of Bleu Devil starters scored in double-figures with Burkes leading the way with a game-high 20 points.  Cornice Wingate had 14 points, along with seven assists; Byrd, Fondel and Mico Sjekloca had 12 apiece.  Sjekloca also added nine rebounds to the effort.  Robert Manson led Loyola with 15 points.

The Bleu Devils will be in GCAC action at The Castle on Monday, January 25, taking on the Knights of Southern University at New Orleans (5-9, 0-6),who are also looking for their first conference win.  Game time is 7:30 p.m.