North Michigan News

Trailing Illinois-Springfield in the final seconds, Northern Michigan University's Julien Smith delivered a game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer, securing an 85-83 victory. The Wildcats faced an 83-82 deficit when Dylan Kuehl rebounded a missed free throw and passed to Gerald Gittens Jr., who set up Smith for the decisive shot.

Northern Michigan improved to 3-0, while Illinois-Springfield fell to 2-1. Despite Illinois-Springfield's strong shooting performance of 67.4% from the floor and 75% from the free-throw line, Northern Michigan managed a comeback. The Wildcats shot 54.2%, with all five starters scoring in double figures.

Sam Privet led with 22 points on an efficient shooting night, including four three-pointers. Dylan Kuehl added 13 points, Julien Smith contributed 12, and Gittens also scored 12 points. Brian Paryzch added another 11 points to the team's tally.

Off the bench, Michael McNabb scored nine points, while Jackson Dudek, Derek Merwick, and Biggie Luster also contributed. Northern Michigan recorded 16 assists against eight turnovers and led in steals and offensive rebounds.

The game began with Northern Michigan trailing early but managing to close the gap with contributions from various players. They briefly held a lead before Illinois-Springfield pulled ahead by halftime.

In the second half, Sam Privet's scoring helped keep Northern Michigan competitive against their hot-shooting opponents. As time wound down, crucial plays by Privet and others set up Smith's dramatic game-winner.

Next weekend, Northern Michigan will face Minnesota State Moorhead on November 22 and Minnesota Duluth on November 23 in Duluth, Minnesota.