GARY, Ind. — IU Northwest men's basketball put together strong stretches on both ends Monday afternoon but could not overcome a late surge, falling 82–75 to IU East inside the Savannah Center.
The RedHawks opened the game with early energy, getting on the board quickly as Ladaion Barnes finished at the rim off an assist from Trey Steinhilber. IU Northwest attacked inside throughout the opening minutes, using ball movement and paint touches to stay even as the teams traded baskets.
Midway through the first half, Caleb Jenkins sparked the offense, knocking down a pair of three-pointers to keep the RedHawks within striking distance. Antonio Phillips added physicality in the post, converting multiple finishes inside as IU Northwest battled through a competitive opening 20 minutes. Despite solid execution, IU East pieced together a late first-half run to take a 37–29 lead into the break.
IU Northwest responded coming out of halftime, opening the second half with improved pace and defensive pressure. Barnes continued to be aggressive, scoring through contact and attacking the glass, while Jenkins connected from deep again to cut into the deficit.
Junior guard Trey Steinhilber provided steady minutes on both ends, contributing eight points, seven rebounds and five assists while helping initiate the offense and apply defensive pressure. The RedHawks trimmed the margin during multiple second-half stretches, pulling within single digits as the Savannah Center crowd stayed engaged.
Down the stretch, IU East capitalized at the free-throw line and converted timely baskets to maintain separation. IU Northwest continued to fight, with Caleb Jenkins leading the RedHawks with 21 points. Ladaion Barnes followed with 20 points and nine rebounds, while Antonio Phillips chipped in 12 points and Amarion Johnson added nine points off the bench.
IU Northwest will step away for the holiday break before returning to action on the road at the University of Saint Francis (Ind.) in Fort Wayne, Ind. Tipoff is scheduled for 12 p.m. CDT.
