FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Despite a strong shooting start and a balanced effort from several contributors, the IU Northwest RedHawks came up short in their season opener Tuesday night, falling 83–74 to No. 21-ranked Indiana Tech inside the Schaefer Center.

Caleb Jenkins led the RedHawks with 15 points on 6-of-11 shooting, while Matthew Hoarde added 14 points and eight rebounds. Off the bench, Trey Steinhilber sparked IU Northwest with 18 points, including three three-pointers, to help the RedHawks stay within reach down the stretch.

IU Northwest (0–1) came out fast, trading baskets with the nationally ranked Warriors in a back-and-forth first half that featured nine ties and six lead changes. Jenkins and Hoarde combined for early buckets to give the RedHawks a brief lead midway through the period, but Indiana Tech used a late run to take a 42–38 advantage at halftime.

In the second half, Steinhilber's shooting kept the RedHawks within striking distance, and Antonio Phillips controlled the glass with nine rebounds. However, Indiana Tech (1–0) found its rhythm pulling away late behind a 51.7% shooting performance in the final 20 minutes.

IU Northwest matched the Warriors on the boards (35–35) and shot 83.3% from the line but couldn't overcome Indiana Tech's points in the paint advantage (44–26) and 22 points off turnovers.

The RedHawks return to action Thursday, Nov. 7, hosting the RedHawk Classic inside the Savannah Center. Fans are encouraged to wear white for the annual "White Out" game. Tipoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. against Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.