NEWPORT NEWS - The Apprentice School men's basketball team was down in numbers this weekend in the MLK Classic with the Builders dropping a pair of New South Athletic Conference games in the event.

The Builders started off the weekend with an 89-80 loss to South Carolina Central Christian. The Gladiators took an early lead and fought off numerous runs from the Builders throughout the night to claim their first win in conference play this season.

Apprentice was led by Jahlil Hope's 30 points and Wayne Hedgepeth's 16, but struggled to find consistent perimeter scoring, finishing just 2-for-13 from deep. Ahmiir Colpetro added 10 points for the Builders.

Sunday, the Builders took on Barber-Scotia and ultimately fell in the second half after being tied 34-34 at intermission. The Sabers used a 50-point second half to pull away late for a 84-73 win. The Builders were led by Shamon Rosser, who scored a team-high 22 points off the bench. Ahmiir Colpetro added 17 points, while Jahlil Hope posted a double-double with 10 points and 15 rebounds.

Despite a 44-38 rebounding edge, the Builders were held to 37.3% shooting as the Sabers sealed the road victory.

The Builders will look to bounce back on Friday as they take on URBE to open the NSAC Pensacola Classic at 1 p.m. Eastern.