January 21, 2005

Men's Basketball Wins Close One

Defense Leads to Win at Chadron State

            Kearney, Neb. –   The Nebraska-Kearney men's basketball team used tough defense down the stretch and a balanced offense to win at Chadron State, 75-66, Thursday night.

            With the key RMAC win, the Lopers (12-3, 7-1 RMAC) beat the Eagles (12-5, 7-2 RMAC) for the 11th straight time and now lead the all-time series, 101-59.

            In a defensive struggle, UNK held Chadron without a field goal over the last six minutes of the game to secure the win.

            Chadron's last bucket came when senior post Elijah Collins made a layup with 6:01 to go to give the Eagles a 64-63 lead.

            California junior Chris Dean (10 points, seven rebounds, 15 minutes) quickly responded with his own layup 20 seconds later and then neither team scored for the next three minutes.

            Colorado Springs sophomore guard James Lane (10 points, three rebounds, three assists, three steals) gave UNK a three point lead when he made two free throws with 3:14 left, ending the scoring drought for both teams.

            Collins made one of two free shots a few seconds later but Bellevue senior Marty Levinson (17  points, three steals, three rebounds) hit a jumper with 2:14 to go and then Colorado Springs sophomore reserve Chad Burger (17 points, five rebounds) put UNK by six when he made a shot in the lane after two missed Loper shots.

            UNK shot a season-low 40.9 percent from the floor but dominated the glass once again, 37-26, including grabbing 16 offensive carrams.

            The Lopers also scored 22 points off 20 Eagle turnovers.

            Also, Utah senior Will Taukiuvea (10 points, six assists) and Columbus sophomore Dusty Jura (11 points, six rebounds, four steals) were in double figures.

            Four Eagles were in double figuers, led by Dave Camadini and Kenny Holston with 16 each.

            UNK's looks to go 4-0 on this road trip by winning at rival Fort Hays State Saturday night.