WATERTOWN, Wis. – The North Central University (NCU) made a trip across the border in search of their second straight victory on Saturday afternoon. The Rams were set to do battle with the Maranatha Baptist University and it was the home team who drew first blood in the contest. The Rams found themselves in an early 7-2 hole but thanks to an impressive first half from Senior
Riley Loukinen, the Rams were able to take the lead and hold on to it. NCU lead by 10 points at the break and were able to pull away to drop the Sabercats by a score of 87-70.
Game Recap
With the Rams unable to find their footing early, the Sabercats took advantage jumping out to an early lead. With the offense stalling out on a few early possessions, NCU started to find their rhythm. Getting things going for the Rams was Senior
Riley Loukinen who exploded for the 17 of the Rams first 24 points. The Senior guard from Little Falls, Minnesota did not miss any of his 6 field goal attempts in the first half en route to 19 points before the break. NCU shot an efficient 54% from the field in the first twenty minutes which propelled them to a 10 point lead at the break. The offensive efficiency was not quite there in the final twenty minute period for the Rams, but they continued to clamp down more on the defensive end. The Rams built their lead to as high as 27 points in the second half, but a Sabercat's late game push eventually ended with a Ram's 87-70. NCU was able to overcome shooting just 34% from the field due to holding the Sabercats to just 30 second half points.
Key Performer(s)
Looking Ahead
NCU will look to add on to their two game winning streak when they play host to the College of St. Scholastica on Wednesday evening. The two will collide in a pivotal matchup for the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference picture, especially as the Rams work to stay alive in the playoff hunt.
