GARY, Ind. – A balanced offensive effort and efficient shooting helped Indiana Northwest secure an 83-74 win over Trinity Christian (IL) on Saturday afternoon at the Savannah Center.
The RedHawks (18-6, 12-4 CCAC) shot an impressive 59.3% from the field, with five players scoring in double figures. Anthony Taylor led the way with 18 points on near-perfect shooting (8-of-9), while Dannie Smith added 15 points and four assists. Trace Williams contributed 14 points and a game-high eight assists, helping Indiana Northwest withstand multiple comeback attempts from the visiting Trolls.
Indiana Northwest jumped out to a 43-35 lead at halftime behind hot perimeter shooting, knocking down 8-of-16 from beyond the arc in the opening 20 minutes. The RedHawks' efficiency continued in the second half, as they shot 60% from the field while holding off Trinity Christian's push in the final minutes.
Demarius Splunge finished with 12 points for the RedHawks, hitting both of his three-point attempts, while Ladaion Barnes chipped in 11 points off the bench. Caleb Jenkins also added seven points, and Indiana Northwest capitalized on 15 points off turnovers to maintain control.
Trinity Christian (7-17, 4-12 CCAC) was led by Chris Cross, who poured in a game-high 24 points on 10-of-17 shooting. Garrett Greene provided 21 points and eight rebounds, and Tylan Harris and Danny Staskunas each added 11 points. The Trolls shot 50.9% from the field and 43.5% from three but were unable to overcome Indiana Northwest's efficient offense.
The RedHawks extended their largest lead to 12 in the final seconds, sealing their fourth win in the last five games.
Indiana Northwest will be back in action on Wednesday, Feb. 12, when they travel to face Judson University. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. CT in Elgin, Ill.
Recap by PJ Katona
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