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 much 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. The Bison's senior Boden Skunberg finished with 25 points, eight rebounds, and two steals, while sophomore Damari Wheeler-Thomas contributed 19 points and three assists. Despite a strong first half, the team's overall shooting percentage slipped to 46% after shooting 58% in the opening half.

Key Takeaways:

  • The North Dakota State University men's basketball team built a 13-point lead in the first half, but ultimately fell to Grand Canyon University 86-71.
  • Senior Boden Skunberg led the Bison with 25 points, eight rebounds, and two steals, while sophomore Damari Wheeler-Thomas added 19 points and three assists.
  • The team's shooting percentage declined to 46% overall after a strong 58% first half, while Grand Canyon University shot 49% for the game.
  • NDSU led for nearly 20 minutes of the contest, while Grand Canyon was ahead for 18 minutes, highlighting a closely contested game.
  • The Bison's first-half performance was marked by a significant lead, but the team's inability to sustain it led to the eventual loss.
  • The matchup against San Jose State on Monday will provide an opportunity for the Bison to bounce back from the defeat.

Statistics:

  • 86: The final score of the game in favor of Grand Canyon University.
  • 71: The final score of the game for North Dakota State University.
  • 25: Boden Skunberg's points in the game, including eight rebounds and two steals.
  • 19: Damari Wheeler-Thomas's points in the game, including three assists.
  • 58%: The Bison's first-half shooting percentage.
  • 46%: The team's overall shooting percentage for the game.
  • 49%: Grand Canyon University's shooting percentage for the game.
  • 10 p.m. CT / 8 p.m. PT: The start time of the Bison's next game against San Jose State on Monday.

Sources:

  • North Dakota State University press release, date not specified.