DAVENPORT, Iowa — IU Northwest men's basketball delivered a gritty road performance Saturday afternoon, battling back from multiple deficits and forcing overtime before coming up short, 96–91, against St. Ambrose University at Lee Lohman Arena.
The RedHawks opened the contest with confidence, attacking the basket early and moving the ball well to match St. Ambrose through the opening minutes. Ladaion Barnes set the tone offensively, scoring off the dribble and finishing through contact, while Caleb Jenkins knocked down an early jumper to keep IU Northwest even as the teams traded baskets.
St. Ambrose found rhythm midway through the first half behind efficient perimeter shooting, but IU Northwest answered with a run of its own. Antonio Phillips provided a physical presence inside, converting a pair of tough finishes in the paint, while Trey Steinhilber knocked down a timely three to halt momentum. Barnes closed the half with back-to-back buckets, helping the RedHawks stay within striking distance at the break.
IU Northwest came out of halftime with renewed energy, opening the second half with improved defensive pressure and quicker offensive execution. Phillips started with a deep three and Barnes attacked downhill for a layup. Romello Ali added a spark off the bench with a strong finish in transition, and Phillips continued to control the glass to fuel second-chance opportunities.
The game tightened in the final minutes of regulation. The RedHawks continued to feed off their momentum, but St. Ambrose answered with back-to-back scores to force into overtime.
IU Northwest continued to fight, with Barnes converting another tough finish and Matthew Hoarde scoring on a fastbreak layup in the paint to cut the deficiet to one. Despite the push, St. Ambrose sealed the game at the free-throw line in the final seconds to secure the 96–91 overtime victory.
IU Northwest was led by Romello Ali, who finished with a team-high 19 points on 6-of-10 shooting, including three three-pointers, to provide a spark off the bench. Matthew Hoarde added 16 points and eight rebounds, while Ladaion Barnes contributed 15 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists in 45 minutes of action.
IU Northwest returns home for its next contest, hosting Saint Xavier University inside the Savannah Center on Suits and Sneakers Night to raise cancer awareness. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
To view more information about the night, visit HERE
