Oxford, Ga. - The Emory Oxford men's basketball team was defeated in a hard-fought game against visiting Georgia Highlands Community College by the score of 96-92.

The Eagles got out to a quick 9-0 start before the Georgia Highlands coach called a timeout. Emory Oxford continued to add to the lead throughout the half, eventually going up by 16 midway through the first. Georgia Highlands came fighting back and cut the lead to five points by halftime.

In the second, both teams tied and traded leads several times. Georgia Highlands had a two-point lead with nine seconds remaining in the game before adding to the lead off of a turnover. Sophomore Anthony Vargas scored with seconds remaining to bring the Eagles within two before Georgia Highlands secured the win on free throws.

Vargas had the best game of his collegiate career with a double-double, leading the Eagles with 31 points and 12 rebounds. Sophomore Zuri Greene also had a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds. Classmate Ryan Kim scored a season-high 22 points while freshman Daniel Shin added 12.

Emory Oxford's next game is on the road against Patrick and Henry Community College at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 13.