NORSE GET REVENGE, ROLL PAST GREEN BAY

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Northern Kentucky punched its ticket to the next round with a strong second-half surge, defeating Green Bay 96-76 Sunday afternoon at Corteva Coliseum.

The Norse started slow offensively, something head coach Darrin Horn acknowledged after the game, but their defense and rebounding kept them steady early. Northern Kentucky locked in defensively and controlled the glass, giving themselves extra possessions while limiting Green Bay’s second chances.

Once the offense found its rhythm, the Norse took over.

Northern Kentucky shot just 37.5% in the first half, but erupted after halftime, shooting 60% from the field and an impressive 66.7% from three-point range. The offensive burst turned a close game into a comfortable win.

LJ Wells led the way with 26 points and nine rebounds, attacking the basket and getting to the free-throw line where he went 10-for-12. Kael Robinson added 22 points and knocked down five three-pointers, benefiting from strong ball movement and second-chance opportunities.

Donovan Oday chipped in 18 points with four triples, while Dan Gherezgher gave the Norse a major lift off the bench with 19 points and five three-pointers.

The Norse also shared the ball well, finishing with 23 assists. Point guard Ethan Elliott controlled the offense with nine assists and just two turnovers.

Defensively, Northern Kentucky forced turnovers that turned into 17 points, helping the Norse pull away late.

With the win, Northern Kentucky advances to face regular-season champion Wright State Raiders men’s basketball in the next round.

Austin Stuckey, The Stable -- Photo Credit: Northern Kentucky University Athletics