(Ryan Luster/48 Minutes Network)
The NKU Norse hosted the cross-river rival, Cincinnati Bearcats at Truist Arena Wednesday night and boy....it was a rowdy one. NKU shocked the Bearcats 64-51 at home in what was likely one of the biggest wins in Northern KY basketball history. The Bearcats were without Rob Newman and Daniel Skillings. However, injured NKU sophomore, Sam Vinson played and made a HUGE impact on the outcome of this one.
The Norse started the game 6-0 on two 3-pointers that set the tone for the entire first half. Marques Warrick had 12 points and lead the way. However, after leading by 9 points, dropped the lead to UC at the end of the first half 40-36. Viktor Lakhin of UC had 6 points and 4 boards. However, everything changed in the 2nd half. NKU went on a 9-0 run to retake the lead and while a couple of ties occurred, mostly lead the way throughout the rest of the game. The Norse's stifling defense held UC to 13.8% shooting and just 11 points. Sam Vinson chipped in 15 points and steals. Warrick finished with 22 points and Chris Branddon had a double double with 10 points and 16 rebounds. Lakhin finished with 9 points and 9 rebounds.
NKU fans stormed the floor after the win in what was a celebration of the greatest regular season victory in the program's history. "Unbelievable college basketball atmosphere " Coach Darrin Horn said after the game. "Everyone came in and contributed. Really good win. Big time college basketball here in Highland Heights, KY."
UC fall to 3-1 and the NKU Norse improve to 2-1. The Norse have a few days off before heading down to south Florida to play Gulf Coast University on Monday night. The UC Bearcats travel out west to take on the #14 ranked Arizona Wildcats on Monday 11/21/22.
