GARY, Ind. — IU Northwest men's basketball looked to even the season series Saturday afternoon, but a late surge in the final seconds by IU Kokomo proved decisive as the RedHawks dropped a hard-fought contest inside the Savannah Center.

Before tipoff, junior Matthew Hoarde was honored in a pregame ceremony for reaching 1,000 career collegiate points, receiving the commemorative game ball in recognition of the milestone reached earlier this season.

The RedHawks opened the game with strong energy, attacking the basket early and setting the tone defensively. IU Northwest forced multiple early stops and converted in transition to grab momentum in front of a lively home crowd, trading leads through the opening minutes as both teams settled in.

IU Kokomo answered with efficient perimeter shooting, stringing together a run midway through the first half to edge in front. IUN responded behind aggressive play on both ends, highlighted by two emphatic dunks from Ladaion Barnes that brought the Savannah Center to its feet and swung momentum back toward the RedHawks. The highlight finishes capped a stretch where IUN tightened defensively and cut into the deficit.

The game remained tightly contested into halftime, with IU Northwest staying within reach through balanced scoring and improved ball movement. The RedHawks continued to battle in the second half, trading baskets with IUK and keeping the margin narrow as neither team was able to fully pull away.

Junior Trey Steinhilber delivered one of his most impactful performances of the season, posting several personal highs while providing steady minutes on both ends of the floor. Steinhilber's confidence offensively and activity defensively helped stabilize IU Northwest during key stretches, particularly as the game intensified late.

With the score tight in the final minutes, IU Kokomo capitalized on a pair of timely possessions and executed efficiently down the stretch to create separation. Despite continued defensive pressure and late efforts to close the gap, the RedHawks were unable to regain the lead before time expired.

IU Northwest will look to regroup quickly as it prepares for another home contest as they host IU East for a weekend of the IU's. Tip off is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 22 at 3 pm.