Mankato, MN -- Tonight, North Central University (NCU) men's basketball traveled south to Mankato, MN to compete in their first Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) squared off with the Bethany Lutheran College (BLC) Vikings. The Rams would struggle offensively shooting just 33.8% from the field and 24.1% from three. Unfortunately, the Vikings would take this one by a score of 72-63 and hand NCU their first conference loss of the year.
In the first, Cameron Thomas would get things started with a three-pointer off an assist by Carmello McNeal. The Vikings would proceed to score 11 unanswered points as they took an 11-3 lead over the Rams. This would be all the momentum Bethany would need as they would stay out in front for the rest of the half. Carrington McNeal would lead the offensive effort for NCU scoring 11 points in the first half. Going into halftime, BLC would hold a 38-31 lead.
To start the second half, North Central would strike first with a jumper from Nik Feller. With 9:08 remaining, BLC would gain their largest lead of the game of 14 points at 56-42. Both teams would work their way to the free throw line where each would attempt 16 FTs. After a layup and free throw make by Carrington McNeal and a huge three-pointer from captain Tanner Holtman, the Rams cut the lead to just 6 with 1:35 left to go. Although NCU caused two BLC turnovers, they would be unsuccessful in scoring on the other end and would be forced to intentionally foul. Unfortunately, the Vikings would preserve their lead as the Rams would drop their first UMAC game by a score of 72-63.
Top Performers:
Looking Ahead:
The men will have a short turnaround as they will have a short turnaround as they face the Knights of Martin Luther College tomorrow evening. Tip-off is set for 4:45pm!
All fans are encouraged to tune into the official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter pages for updates on men's basketball and all things NCU Athletics.
