UIC lost to Northern Kentucky 79-72 Friday night at the UIC Pavilion. The Flames entered the game just one game behind Northern Kentucky for first place. Tai Odiase led UIC (17-13,12-5) with 14 points, while also adding nine rebounds and three blocks. Godwin Boahen, Dikembe Dixson, Tarkus Ferguson and Marcus Ottey all scored in double-figures as well.
UIC struggled offensively in the first half, only accumulating 26 points on 32% shooting from the field. Dixson led the Flames nine points. UIC and Jordan Blount did do a good job of defending Drew McDonald, who came into the game averaging 17.1 points per game. McDonald only scored two points in 12 first-half minutes as foul trouble plagued him.
Northern Kentucky, on the other hand, had every player who entered the game score. Levon’s Holland II led all scorer’s with 12 points. Carson Williams added nine points. NKU had nine offensive rebounds, which led to eight second chance points. UIC only had three offensive rebounds and did not get a second chance point.
UIC got off to a fast start in the second half and eventually tied Northern Kentucky at 61 after an Ottey layup with 5:48 left in the game. But Northern Kentucky, Lavonne Holland II in particular, sealed the deal late in the game. Holland II led Northern Kentucky with 25 points.
Key Sequence
McDonald made a crucial three to give Northern Kentucky a 64-61 lead with 5:31 left in the game. Odiase missed an alley-oop on the next possession and then had the ball stolen. Jordan Garnett then made a three give Northern Kentucky a 67-61 lead with 4:36 left. UIC never got closer than that deficit.
What It Means
UIC is no longer in contention for the regular-season title. But the Flames can finish no lower than third place.
What’s Next
Wright State comes to the UIC Pavilion on Sunday evening. Wright State lost to IUPUI today and are currently in second place in the Horizon League.
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