MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- Looking to extend their winning streak to four games, the North Central University (NCU) men's basketball team hosted Michigan team Finlandia University (FU). An exceptional second half by the Rams was too much for the Lions to handle as NCU beat FU 90-51.

Game Recap

When both teams got settled after a up and down first two minutes, the Rams went on a 10-2 run helped by a couple steals and forced turnovers. The Lions, although they managed to put some points up, were a bit flustered by NCU's defense. FU only ever got within four points, but the Rams were always ready to respond, as they continued to extend their lead around ten points in the first half. Justin Castro (Kissimmee, FL, Gateway High School) connected with Micah Filer (Sacramento, CA, Capital Christian School) three times in the first half as Filer started his 37 point game early on. 

Up by 12 at the half, NCU looked to put the Lions away for good as they opened up the second 20 minutes. Backed by points from Jonathan Thompson (Kansas City, MO, Park Hill South High School), Castro, and Filer, the Rams went on a 15-3 run further extending their lead to 20-plus points. NCU really dominated every aspect of the court in tonight's matchup. The bigs for the Rams controlled the paint as they scored 42 of their points in the key and had 20 more rebounds than the Lions. This command of the key made FU collapse at times, which still worked in favor of NCU. The Rams had 13 made three's compared to the Lion's four. Out of those 13 makes were nine from Filer as he shot 56% from outside.

The Rams break .500 with the win over the Lions as they move to 5-4 on the season. NCU continues their winning streak to four games and is in a great spot as they head into conference play this upcoming week.

Key Performers

• Senior Micah Filer displayed his offense ability scoring 37 points helped by his nine three pointers.
• Seth Fuqua (Colorado Springs, CO, The Vanguard School) had an all around good game with nine points, eight assists, and seven rebounds.
• Adding another nine points to the score was Cameron Thomas (Aurora, CO, Grandview High School) who also grabbed seven boards.

Looking Ahead

This Friday, the Rams play in their first Upper Midwest Athletic Conference competition of the season as they head to the University of Minnesota Morris with a 7:15 pm tip off. All fans are encouraged to follow official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter pages for updates on the men's basketball team and much more information.