Northern Colorado solidified their Big Sky Conference dominance with a commanding 92-74 victory over Idaho on Saturday night. Isaiah Hawthorne delivered a career-high 25 points, shooting an exceptional 9/11 from the field to propel the Bears (21-8, 13-3 Big Sky) closer to postseason contention.
Key contributors included Langston Reynolds with 21 points and Quinn Denker’s efficient 13-point performance. Idaho’s Tyler Linhardt fought valiantly with 23 points, but the Vandals (12-16, 7-8) couldn’t contain Northern Colorado’s offensive firepower.
Critical factors in the Bears’ win:
- 58.2% team field goal accuracy vs Idaho’s 45.6%
- +12 rebound differential
- 15 assists demonstrating cohesive ball movement
This victory extends Northern Colorado’s home court dominance to 11-2 this season. With March Madness implications looming, Coach Steve Smiley praised his team’s adaptability:
When we control the paint and limit turnovers, we’re tough to stop.
Idaho faces must-win pressure hosting Idaho State on Thursday, while Northern Colorado eyes a conference title clash at Northern Arizona this Saturday. The Bears now rank second in Big Sky standings – their highest position since 2018.