GARY, Ind. — IU Northwest men's basketball celebrated their 2024 CCAC championship with a presentation of their championship rings and went on to throttle rival IU Kokomo 106-74 on Saturday afternoon, delivering a dominant performance fueled by efficient shooting and stifling defense.

The RedHawks (4-1) shot a scorching 60% from the field (39 of 65), including 15 of 26 (57.7%) from beyond the arc. Junior guard Ladaion Barnes led all scorers with 23 points, including seven three-pointers on just nine attempts, while also grabbing four rebounds. Anthony Taylor and Trace Williams each added 17 points. Williams was a catalyst on offense, dishing out 10 assists to complete a double-double and pacing the RedHawks' fast-paced attack.

Indiana Northwest dominated in nearly every facet of the game. They outscored IU Kokomo (3-2) 46-30 in the paint and capitalized on the Cougars' mistakes, generating 21 points off 14 turnovers. The RedHawks also controlled the glass, outrebounding the Cougars 38-26, with eight rebounds each from Dannie Smith and Jaylen Jennings.

IU Kokomo, despite a solid shooting night at 42.1% (24 of 57), couldn't match Indiana Northwest's offensive firepower or defensive pressure. Noah Harris led the Cougars with 19 points on 7-of-12 shooting, while Evan Kretz added 13 points, connecting on 3 of 5 from three-point range. Joseph Annan Jr. chipped in 11 points and a team-high six rebounds.

The Cougars were effective at the free-throw line, making 19 of 22 attempts (86.4%), but struggled to find consistent scoring opportunities, particularly in transition, as the RedHawks held them to just two fast-break points.

Indiana Northwest's bench made a significant impact, outscoring IU Kokomo's reserves 25-20. Caleb Jenkins and Brandon Escobedo combined for nine points off the bench, while the RedHawks' reserves also helped maintain defensive intensity late in the game.

The RedHawks showcased their defensive strength with nine steals and seven blocks, frustrating IU Kokomo's offense throughout the contest. Jennings anchored the defensive effort with four blocks, while Barnes and Taylor combined for five steals.

The RedHawks will be back in action on Wednesday, November 20, when they play Hillsdale College on the road in Hillsdale, Michigan. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST.
 
 
Recap by PJ Katona