George Mason vs. Bucknell recap: Patriots suffer first loss of the year to Bison, 61-56

Bucknell Bison guard Bryson Johnson and forward Mike Muscala's 16 points each proved too much for the George Mason Patriots, who suffered their first loss of the year, 61-56, despite guard Sherrod Wright's 16 points of his own.

Muscala also provided 15 rebounds for the Bison, helping Bucknell overcome having only three players score in double figures on a night that was dominated by defense. Bucknell scored the first seven points of the night behind Johnson and Muscala, who the Patriots struggled to contain throughout the night.

Patriots guard Patrick Holloway was a key off the bench, scoring 11 points — the only other George Mason player to score in double digits. George Mason forward Marko Gujanicic also made an impact in relief, posting six rebounds and five points in limited action.

Despite pulling to within two of Bucknell in early going in second-half action, George Mason would never lead the game, as Bucknell's Brian Fitzpatrick and others hit key free throws in the latter parts of the second half to keep the game out of reach for the Patriots.