North Dakota State Men's Basketball Falls to Grand Canyon University 86-71

Strategic Insights -

The North Dakota State University men's basketball team led by as many as 13 points in the first half, but defending WAC champion and preseason favorite Grand Canyon University stormed back to earn an 86-71 victory on Saturday evening at GCU Arena. Senior Boden Skunberg finished with 25 points, eight rebounds, and two steals, while sophomore Damari Wheeler-Thomas had 19 points and three assists for the Bison. The game was marked by a strong comeback by Grand Canyon, who closed with an 8-0 run to cut the Bison lead to 40-35 at halftime and ultimately took the lead at 44-43 with 16:40 remaining.

Key Takeaways:

  • The North Dakota State men's basketball team led by as many as 13 points in the first half, but ultimately fell to Grand Canyon University 86-71.
  • Senior Boden Skunberg finished with 25 points, eight rebounds, and two steals, while sophomore Damari Wheeler-Thomas had 19 points and three assists for the Bison.
  • Grand Canyon University's strong comeback was marked by a 15-3 run in the final minutes of the game, which came after being down by as many as 13 points in the first half.
  • The Bison shot 46 percent from the field overall, while Grand Canyon shot 49 percent for the game.
  • North Dakota State will play at San Jose State on Monday at 10 p.m. CT / 8 p.m. PT.

Statistics:

  • Grand Canyon University's comeback was fueled by a 15-3 run in the final minutes of the game.
  • The Bison led for nearly 20 minutes of the contest, while Grand Canyon was ahead for 18 minutes.
  • The game featured a high-scoring second half, with Grand Canyon outscoring North Dakota State 47-31.
  • NDSU shot 46 percent from the field overall, while GCU shot 49 percent for the game.
  • Boden Skunberg finished with 25 points, eight rebounds, and two steals.

Sources:

  • [North Dakota State University Athletics news release]