WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. — The Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team was overtaken by Northern Michigan with a final score of 69-51 at Just A Game Fieldhouse on Saturday. Despite recording 30 points in the paint, the Bearcats were unable to overcome the Wildcats' 42 points in the same area.
 
Northwest has now brought its record to 5-2 overall, as Northern Michigan is now 3-1.
 
The game commenced with Northwest quickly establishing an early lead through a layup by Jack Ratigan, assisted by Royce Williams, at 18:25. They maintained momentum with a series of effective plays in the paint, highlighted by Trey Moala's dunk at 17:16, extending their advantage. Despite consistent scoring efforts, including a three-pointer by Robert Garcia at 12:18 and a layup by Aiden Gair at 3:22, the Wildcats responded efficiently, keeping the score tight. As the first half concluded, Northern Michigan managed to edge ahead with a late layup by Sam Privet at 0:26, ending the half with a narrow 33-31 lead over the Bearcats.
 
Northwest faced a challenging second half, struggling to sustain momentum despite several key plays. Moala's dunk at 18:44, assisted by Gair, provided an early spark, but defensive rebounds by Dylan Kuehl allowed the home team to pull away. Later, a layup by Garcia at 11:24 briefly narrowed the gap, yet consistent scoring from the Wildcats extended their advantage.
 
Despite a valiant effort by the Bearcats, including a 3-pointer by Booker Scheierman at 3:11 and a late layup by Osa Obasohan at 1:01, they were unable to close the deficit. The half ended with Northern Michigan maintaining control, contributing to a 69–51 final score.
 
Moala led the team with 10 points, converting five field goals on nine attempts. Larenz Walters contributed defensively with two blocks while adding seven points. Williams recorded two steals and provided six points along with two assists. Gair scored eight points, including one three-pointer, and dished out two assists.
 
In their next matchup, the Bearcats will welcome York (Neb.) to Maryville, Mo. The teams will face off on Wednesday, Nov. 26 at 6 p.m.