EASTON, Pa.- The Lafayette men's basketball team opened the Patriot League slate with a 60-47 loss to conference leader American in Kirby Sports Center on Friday evening.

Sophomore CJ Fulton was the Leopards' main option throughout the night, totaling 12 points with three rebounds and six assists.

The Eagles proved they were happy to be back from an eight-day holiday break, jumping out to a 17-3 lead by the 13-minute mark. Senior Leo O'Boyle and freshman Ryan Pettit led the Maroon and White to retaliate with five points apiece.

American built that lead up to as many as 19 in the first 20 minutes, thanks to a 72.2 percent shooting performance from the floor in the half.

The Leopards interjected the Eagles' second-half barrage with buckets from Fulton, Josh Rivera and Eric Sondberg to stay within 15 at the 10-minute mark, 48-33.

A three-pointer from junior Kyle Jenkins brought the Leopards within 10, 55-45, with 2:46 left to play. The Maroon and White were not able to close the gap any further due to a strong defensive performance by the Eagles.

Frequent stops coupled with a 60 percent shooting night from the floor by the visitors were enough to secure the 60-47 victory.

Lafayette forced a season-high 26 turnovers led by Pettit and Kyle Jenkins with three steals each.

American was led by Matt Rogers and Johnny O'Neil with 14 and 12 points, respectively.

The Leopards host Army on Monday with tip-off scheduled for 7 p.m.

For the latest on the Lafayette College men's basketball program, follow the Leopards on Twitter @LafayetteMBB and Instagram @lafayettembb.