In a thrilling basketball matchup in Greeley, Colorado, Northern Colorado emerged victorious over Montana State with a score of 73-66, thanks to a stellar performance by Quinn Denker. Scoring 17 points, Denker was instrumental in guiding Northern Colorado to their triumph on Saturday night. The game was an engaging showcase of skill and tenacity as both teams battled ardently to secure division points.
Denker had an impressive night, demonstrating remarkable accuracy with a shooting rate of 6 for 8, including 3 for 4 from beyond the arc. He also capitalized on free-throw opportunities, successfully shooting 2 out of 3 free throws. This outstanding performance contributed significantly to the Bears' victory, further cementing their strong position in the Big Sky Conference with an 18-7 overall record and 10-2 in conference play.
Adding to Northern Colorado's offense, Marcell McCreary delivered a commendable performance, nearly matching Denker’s efforts with 15 points. McCreary excelled by making 4 out of 7 attempts from the field and converting 6 of his 8 free-throw shots. Additionally, he contributed defensively by securing six rebounds, showcasing a well-rounded game that supported the Bears' efforts. Langston Reynolds also played a key role by adding 14 points, including going 4 of 6 from the free-throw line, rounding out Northern Colorado’s multi-faceted offense.
Montana State, while thwarted in their attempt to secure victory, showed commendable tenacity and skill. Jabe Mullins was the standout performer for the Bobcats, contributing an impressive 24 points. Brandon Walker also played a significant role, adding 15 points and leading the team with seven rebounds. Bryce Zephir supplemented the team’s efforts with 11 points, demonstrating the depth and talent within Montana State's lineup.
Looking ahead, both teams will continue their competitive season. Northern Colorado is set to face Sacramento State, while Montana State will host Weber State. As the Big Sky Conference race heats up, these upcoming games will be critical for maintaining momentum and pursuing end-of-season success.
This game exemplified the intensity and passion present in college basketball, with both Northern Colorado and Montana State showcasing their abilities. The victory secures Northern Colorado's dominant standing, highlighting them as a formidable force within their division. The enthusiasm and energy brought by both teams left fans eagerly anticipating their next face-off.