GARY, Ind. — IU Northwest men's basketball showed resilience and energy Wednesday night inside the Savannah Center, but a hot-shooting first half by Governors State proved decisive as the RedHawks dropped a 97–80 CCAC contest.
IU Northwest opened the game with aggressive play on both ends, attacking the paint early and matching Governors State basket for basket through the opening minutes. Ladaion Barnes set the tone offensively, scoring inside and finishing through contact, while Antonio Phillips energized the crowd with strong finishes at the rim, including a powerful dunk that briefly gave the RedHawks momentum.
The Jaguars found success from long range to create separation midway through the first half, converting timely three-pointers to build a cushion. Despite the deficit, IU Northwest continued to battle, answering with baskets from Barnes and Matthew Hoarde while forcing stops on the defensive end. Barnes' ability to score at all three levels helped keep the RedHawks within reach, but Governors State closed the half on a run to take a 55–39 advantage into the break.
IU Northwest came out of halftime with renewed intensity, opening the second half with improved ball movement and defensive pressure. Barnes knocked down a three early in the period, while Hoarde and Romello Ali contributed timely baskets to spark a push.
The RedHawks continued to chip away in the second half, highlighted by another emphatic finish from Phillips and a strong stretch from Barnes, who scored in transition and from deep. Despite the effort, Governors State maintained control down the stretch by capitalizing on second-chance opportunities and converting at the free-throw line.
IU Northwest was led by Ladaion Barnes, who finished with 24 points, while Matthew Hoarde added 15 points. Antonio Phillips contributed 15 points and made a significant impact defensively with multiple blocks, and Romello Ali chipped in four points. Trey Steinhilber added two points and three assists as the RedHawks received contributions throughout the lineup.
IU Northwest continues CCAC play on the road Saturday, traveling to the University of St. Francis (Ill.) in Joliet, Ill. Tipoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.
