The Basics
Score: Northwestern 68 – Central Oklahoma 77
Records:Â NW (0-1, 0-0 GAC)Â - UCOÂ (1-0, 0-0 MIAA)
Location: Hamilton Fieldhouse – Edmond, Okla.
EDMOND, Okla. – Senior Adrian Motley won the opening tip-off at Hamilton Fieldhouse on Friday evening, opening the Rangers 2016-2017 regular season against the University of Central Oklahoma. As part of the MIAA/GAC Challenge, the teams squared off in the second part of a women's-men's double header. Northwestern got off to a slow start, allowing a seven point run by the Bronchos before finding their groove and answering back with seven straight points of their own. A strong presence on the defensive front was visible early, as transfer Trey Johnson had two huge blocks at the rim. The opening frame saw plenty of lead changes, as the Rangers and the Bronchos went back and forth before UCO rattled off 14-2 run to close the half with a 35-29 lead. The Bronchos would extend their lead to twelve as Motley found himself in foul trouble midway through the 2nd. Northwestern refused to lay down, fighting back to within two points with just over a minute remaining. Following a costly turnover with less than a minute left, Northwesten was forced to foul. UCO was able to hit their free throws when it mattered late, holding off the Rangers late push for a 77-68 final.
Individual Leaders
·       Adrian Motley had 14 points, nine rebounds and a steal. Motley sits three points shy of 1,000 in his Ranger career.
·       Cody Halvorson impressed from beyond the arc in his first game as a Ranger, shooting 4-7 from deep en route to posting 14 total points.
Game Changer
·       The Rangers were ultimately unable to regain control of lead after the Broncho's 14-2 run late in the first half.
Up Next
- Northwestern Oklahoma State Men's Basketball will return to the hardwood at Hamilton Fieldhouse on Sunday afternoon to conclude play in the MIAA/GAC challenge against Northeastern State at 3 p.m.
For the latest information and updates on Ranger Basketball, follow @NWOSUAthletics on Twitter or go to www.riderangersride.com.
