A strong start wasn’t enough to propel the Albert Lea boys’ basketball team to its first win of the season.

The Tigers led 19-13 with nine minutes left in the first half, but Rochester Century responded with an 18-3 run before halftime.

Albert Lea wasn’t able bounce back in the second half Tuesday during a 57-49 loss.

“We just struggled to get into our offense,” said Albert Lea coach Lucas Kreuscher. “There was a lot of tentativeness, and we never got into a rhythm.”

Dedoch Chan led the Tigers in the paint and showed range by burying a 3-pointer in the first half. He led the team with 23 points, seven rebounds, an assist and two steals.

Jake Kilby led the backcourt with 12 points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals.

Coming into the game, Albert Lea and Rochester Century had a combined record of 0-13.

Next, Albert Lea (0-7 overall, 0-6 Big Nine Conference) will play at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Mankato West (3-3 overall, 3-3 Big Nine Conference).

The Scarlets are coming off a 72-69 loss Tuesday at Rochester Mayo.