ELGIN, Ill. — IU Northwest men's basketball opened the 2026 calendar year with renewed energy Saturday afternoon, snapping a six-game losing streak behind a complete, physical performance on the road at Judson University.

The RedHawks set the tone early, playing downhill offensively and matching that pace with defensive pressure. Caleb Jenkins jump-started the offense in the opening minutes, attacking off the bounce and creating scoring opportunities as IU Northwest traded baskets early.

Momentum shifted midway through the first half when the RedHawks strung together consecutive defensive stops. Ladaion Barnes punctuated the run with an emphatic dunk in transition, igniting the IU Northwest bench and giving the RedHawks a spark on both ends of the floor. IU Northwest continued to capitalize, moving the ball efficiently and finishing possessions to build separation before halftime.

The RedHawks carried that energy into the second half. After another defensive stop, Antonio Phillips delivered a powerful finish at the rim, throwing down a dunk that helped keep momentum firmly with the RedHawks. The interior presence from Barnes and Phillips allowed IU Northwest to control the paint as the team answered each Judson push with poised execution.

Down the stretch, the RedHawks showed composure, valuing possessions and continuing to attack the basket. Jenkins helped steady the offense late, while Barnes remained active on the glass to limit second-chance opportunities. The sustained effort sealed the win and marked a turning point as IU Northwest halted its six-game skid to open the new year.

"This group stayed together and trusted the work," head coach Javier Heridia said. "We talked about setting the tone early and playing with purpose on both ends, and I thought our guys responded the right way."

IU Northwest will return home for its next contest, hosting Holy Cross College at the Savannah Center with tip off scheduled for 7 p.m.