GARY, Ind. — IU Northwest men's basketball traded runs early Wednesday night inside the Savannah Center, but a strong second-half push by Holy Cross proved to be the difference as the RedHawks fell, 83–71.

IU Northwest opened the contest with good energy, moving the ball efficiently and attacking inside to stay even through the opening minutes. Ladaion Barnes helped set the tone early, scoring inside and facilitating the offense, while Trey Steinhilber knocked down a pair of first-half triples to keep the RedHawks within striking distance.

The RedHawks strung together stops midway through the first half, using ball movement to generate quality looks. Caleb Jenkins connected from deep and added a pair of late free throws as IU Northwest closed the half strong, trailing just 42–40 at the break.

Holy Cross opened the second half with a decisive run, capitalizing on turnovers and converting at the rim to create separation. IU Northwest answered behind Amarion Johnson, who continued to show why he was named CCAC Defensive Player of the Week, anchoring the paint with physical defense, contested rebounds, and timely finishes. Johnson provided a spark with strong interior play on both ends, including a powerful dunk that trimmed the deficit and briefly shifted momentum.

Despite continued effort from Barnes and Johnson, Holy Cross maintained control by converting second-chance opportunities and executing efficiently down the stretch. IU Northwest continued to compete through the final minutes, with Romello Ali and Matthew Hoarde adding timely baskets off the bench, but the RedHawks were unable to fully close the gap.

IU Northwest was led by Amarion Johnson, who finished with 16 points and 10 rebounds to record a double-double while controlling the defensive end. Caleb Jenkins and Ladaion Barnes each scored 11 points, with Barnes also adding nine rebounds and seven assists. Trey Steinhilber chipped in nine points, while Romello Ali and Matthew Hoarde each added nine points off the bench.

IU Northwest continues its home stretch on Saturday, Jan. 10, hosting No. 1 in the CCAC Olivet Nazarene University inside the Savannah Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.