Vandament Arena | Northern Michigan University Athletics
Vandament Arena | Northern Michigan University Athletics
In a closely contested game, the Northern Michigan men's basketball team secured a significant victory over Upper Iowa, ranked 25th, with a final score of 79-76. The match took place in Wisconsin Dells and was marked by numerous lead changes and ties throughout its duration.
Julien Smith and Dylan Kuehl were instrumental in the Wildcats' success, contributing significantly to the team's scoring in the closing minutes. Kuehl scored eight consecutive points through free throws and various plays around the basket. Smith then stepped up to seal the win by scoring nine points at crucial moments. He hit a jumper with 1:20 left on the clock to take the lead, followed by a three-pointer with 33 seconds remaining, and capped it off with an and-one play.
Kuehl led Northern's offense with 19 points on efficient shooting. Smith added 15 points, Sam Privet contributed 13 points along with nine rebounds, while Derek Merwick scored 11 points off the bench without missing from beyond the arc.
Northern Michigan shot over 50% for only the second time this season but faced challenges due to turnovers. They committed ten more turnovers than Upper Iowa but managed to control rebounds effectively.
The first half was tightly contested with frequent lead changes and ties. Upper Iowa briefly held their largest lead early in the second half before Northern Michigan responded strongly. Merwick's layup tied the game midway through the second half as both teams continued exchanging leads.
With just over a minute left in regulation time, Smith made critical shots that ensured Northern Michigan's victory despite Upper Iowa's efforts to regain control.
This win marks Northern Michigan's fourth consecutive victory and maintains their perfect record during trips to Wisconsin Dells this season. They now hold a record of seven wins against two losses while Upper Iowa stands at seven wins against three losses.
Northern Michigan will conclude their games for this year by hosting Northland College on December 21st before taking an eleven-day break ahead of resuming conference play in January.
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