NKU Defeats the EKU Colonels 85-75 on the Road
by Sean Mackey
Riding high after a 35 point victory over the University of the Cumberlands last Thursday, the NKU Norse were looking to continue their winning ways on the road against another team called the Colonels. NKU traveled to Richmond, KY and defeated EKU during a late Sunday afternoon matinee, 85-75.
The Norse came out swinging from the get-go and their defense and some sharp 3 point shooting during the first half were a catalyst. NKU forced 5 steals during a fast paced first 20 minutes and shot 5-10 from the 3 point line including 3-3 from freshman, Jerami Israel. The Norse went on a 10-0 run which solidified a 14 point lead. Trey Robinson chipped in 10 points and 3 boards. EKU’s Isaiah Cozart had points. The Norse held the Colonels to 32% from the field during the first half.
EKU turned up the offense during the beginning of the 2nd half and quickly cut the lead to just 6. However, NKU were determined not to walk out of Richmond without a win. Sophomore, Sam Vinson seemed to be just about everywhere, diving for loose balls, swiping away poor dribbles, assisting open players and driving to the basket when he needed to. EKU had a few more runs left in them though. They went on a 10-0 run to get within 1 point of the Norse lead by Cozart (who was dunking the lights out in this contest). NKU were visibly rattled, throwing away the ball when pressured and making silly defensive decisions. NKU Head Coach, Darrin Horn called a time out to reign in the team. They quickly went on another 8-0 run to get the lead back up to double digits.
EKU had one more run that got them within 3 points but Northern Kentucky wouldn’t go away. Vinson’s hot shooting and defense stood out as the defining factor in the Norse’s victory. Vinson ended with 17 points (3-5 3FG), 2 steals, 4 assists & 6 rebounds. Trey Robinson once again flirted with a triple double with 14 points, 8 rebounds and 3 steals. Israel ended with 15 points as well. The Colonel's Isaiah Cozart had a monster game with 24 points (11-14 FG), 13 rebounds and 5 blocks
NKU continue their holiday season road trip Thursday night when they head out west to visit the Saint Mary’s Gaels in Moraga, CA (12/21, 10:00 p.m. ESPN+).