For the first three-quarters of the game, the visiting Foresters had the edge in virtually all departments, especially defensive intensity, limiting Monmouth to just 18 first-half points.
Trailing 54-33 with just over 10 minutes to play, it appeared a light went on for the Scots. Chris Hebeler's four-point play at the 10:29 mark got the comeback started, and Monmouth gradually chipped away at the lead. The Scots cut it to single digits for the first time in the second half on Hebeler's three-point play with 3:22 left, and Anthony Beaird's sixth trey of the game brought Monmouth within one at 71-70 with 30 seconds remaining. After two Forester free throws, the Scots opted for a two-point try, but Travis Miller's runner rimmed out, and the Foresters sealed the deal by finishing 5-of-6 at the line.
Hebeler led Monmouth with 21 points, Beaird added 20 and Joe Terwelp contributed all 11 of his points off the bench in the second half.
The Foresters showed great balance, as all five starters netted double figures, led by Eric McDonald's 22 points. Lake Forest was 31-of-37 at the foul line.