TIFFIN -- The Heidelberg University Men's Basketball team dropped its final home game of the regular season, falling to John Carroll, 76-71. Per the usual between these two schools, Wednesday's game was a physical contest that featured seven lead changes.

John Carroll improved to 19-5 overall, 14-3 in the OAC -- securing a first round bye in next week's OAC Tournament. Heidelberg slipped to 15-9, 11-6 -- and will host an OAC Tournament game next Tuesday.  

The Student Princes were undone by a large rebounding deficit, with JCU holding a 56-28 edge on the glass.  

Heidelberg led by as many as eight in the first half, but JCU chipped away. Closing quickly in the final minutes before halftime, the Blue Streaks were down 35-32 at the break. 

The lead seesawed in the second half, but a costly double technical foul for Heidelberg near the midway point of the second half helped turn the momentum to the visitors.  

John Carroll held a 44-32 edge on points in the paint and a 19-6 advantage in second chance points. Heidelberg committed just five turnovers, giving them a chance in the game. 

Elijah Harden had a team-high 17 points while Eric Panning notched 15 points and 10 rebounds. It was his ninth double-double of the season and 39th of his career -- one behind 'Berg record holder Chris Reichert's 40 (1975-79). Additionally, Panning surpassed the 1,200-point threshold, becoming the 17th Student Prince to do so.

Manny Hill had a game-high seven assists.  

Will Yontek led JCU with 24 points and 14 boards -- one of three Blue Streaks with a double-double.  

Heidelberg may host Otterbein, Ohio Northern, or Capital in the OAC Quarterfinals, depending on how seeding shakes out in the regular season finale on Saturday. Heidelberg travels to pesky Wilmington for a 3 p.m. affair.