The Niles Ring Lardner seventh grade boys’ basketball team lost for only the second time this season Monday night.

The Vikings were edged by St. Joe Upton 34-31.

Alex Harpenau led Niles with 15 points and 12 rebounds. Jake Hamm added eight points and grabbed nine rebounds, while Hunter Slaughter finished with eight points and four assists.

Kenny Gathright grabbed six rebounds.

The Vikings finish their season Wednesday against Lakeshore.

Eighth grade

The eighth grade boys’ basketball team was also edged by St. Joseph Monday night.

The Vikings fell to Upton 38-36.

Niles trailed 10-6 after one quarter of play and 24-16 at halftime. The Bears increased their lead to 30-18 before settling for a 30-24 advantage heading into the final quarter.

The Vikings were finally able to catch St. Joe and take a 32-20 lead. But a pair of 3-pointers by the Bears sealed Niles’ fate.

Gavin Rasler led Niles with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Joe Avance added 10 points and Tyler Phillips seven.

The Vikings (7-4) will travel to Stevensville Wednesday to take on Lakeshore.