MILWAUKEE, Wis. -- In their season debut, the North Central University (NCU) men's basketball team traveled to the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSE) for a nonconference matchup. The Rams held with the Raiders in the first half, but ultimately fell 76-58.

Game Recap

The fight was on from the first whistle. The Rams went on a 5-0 run to start the game and maintained a good lead in the first ten minutes. However, the Raiders found their groove and began catching up to NCU as the minutes went down. MSE took the lead with about three minutes to go in the first half and closed out the half on top by eight points.

Two of NCU's starters, Justin Castro (Kissimmee, FL, Gateway High School) and Micah Filer (Sacramento, CA, Capital Christian School), dominated on the offensive end. Whether it was an outside shot or a drive to a layup, Castro and Filer beat the Raider's defense left and right. Coming off the bench, Tanner Holtman (Aurora, CO, Grandview High School) was key in the paint grabbing six boards for the Rams. On the defensive end, Jonathan Thompson (Kansas City, MO, Park Hill South High School) added three steals that helped contribute to some fast break points. 

Going into the second half, the Rams got back within four points. The Raiders would go on a run and NCU would fight to close the gap. Ultimately, the gap was too big for the Rams to close with the time running out. MSE got the win despite NCU's best efforts.

Key Performers

• Justin Castro had 15 points for the Rams.
• With two three points, Micah Filer added 14 points.
• Jonathan Thompson was all over the court with nine points, five rebounds, three steals, and two blocks. 

Looking Ahead

The Rams get right back into action tomorrow at 4:30 pm against at Wisconsin Lutheran College. All fans are encouraged to tune into official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter pages for updates on the men's basketball team and more important information.