IOWA FALLS, Iowa – The Top-20 battle between sixth-ranked Macomb and No. 17 Ellsworth lived up to its billing to close out the opening night of the 2023 Dale Howard Classic at Ellsworth Community College on Friday (Nov. 10). The host Panthers made key plays and capitalized on their chances from the charity stripe late to top the Monarchs by a narrow 83-79 margin.

The Monarchs held a 39-37 lead at the break and later led 69-64 with eight minutes remaining, but the host Panthers closed the contest on a 19-10 run to earn the win. Despite being whistled for 30-plus fouls, the Monarchs were also able get to the line often in Friday's ranked matchup. Unfortunately, the free throw line was unkind to the Monarchs as the Blue & White made 9-of-24 attempts in the narrow setback.

Juwan Maxey (Detroit, Mich./Renaissance) once again played his best when the lights shined brightest as the sophomore guard poured in a career-high 23 points. Maxey drained five of his first six 3-pointers, and eight of his first 10 shots overall from the field, to lead the Monarchs Friday night. The sophomore guard added six rebounds and four assists as part of a solid night on the hardwood.

Tymias Williams (Macomb, Mich./Dakota) had 15 points, eight rebounds, two blocks and two steals, while Josh Hines (Macomb, Mich./Dakota/U-Indy) checked in with a stat line of 13 points, four rebounds and three assists. Justin James (Sterling Heights, Mich./Stevenson) recorded 10 points and added four assists and four rebounds in his second start in as many games this season.

Tate MacKenzie (Ypsilanti, Mich./Lincoln) hauled in eight rebounds to tie for the team lead in Friday's top-20 battle.

The Monarchs wrap up their time in Iowa with a neutral site contest against Iowa Western Saturday at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT.

Macomb Athletics extends its best wishes for a speedy recovery to the Ellsworth player who went down in the first half.