Men's Basketball Downs Finlandia 99-73

MIDLAND, MICH. – The Northwood University men's basketball team posted a 99-73 victory over Finlandia Saturday afternoon (November 29).

The contest was the home-opener for the Timberwolves. Northwood is now 3-1 on the season. Finlandia falls to 2-4 with the loss.

Both teams came out playing well offensively – Finlandia from 3-point range and Northwood inside. The Timberwolves shot 54.1 percent from the floor in the first half (20-37) thanks to scoring 28 points in the paint. Finlandia connected on 10 of 19 from 3-point range in the opening 20 minutes (52.6 percent). Northwood ended the half with a 50-42 lead, thanks in large part to a 24-13 edge in rebounding.

Northwood picked up their defense in the second half, leading to the 26-point victory. Finlandia went 3-12 from 3-point range in the second half, leading to the Lions scoring 11 fewer points after the break (42-31). Meanwhile, the Timberwolves shot 50.0 percent from the floor in the half (19-38) and went 7-7 from the foul line.

For the game, Northwood finished at 52.0 percent from the floor (39-75) while Finlandia finished at 43.3 percent (29-67). The Timberwolves finished with a 45-32 edge in rebounding and dished out a season-high 27 assists. Northwood's play in transition was a big key to the win, as NU finished with a 19-0 advantage in fast break points.

Maurice Jones (Saginaw, Mich./Arthur Hill) made his home debut a strong one, finishing with 16 points, nine assists, five steals and six rebounds. Will Bowles (East Detroit, Mich./Southlake) led the Timberwolves with 19 points and three blocks, while Khalid King (Columbus, Ohio/North Carolina A&T) had 13 points, eight assists and three steals. Nick Spitzley (Pewamo, Mich./Pewamo-Westphalia) and Tony Johnson (Midland, Mich.) ended with 12 and 11 points, respectively.

Northwood will open Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference play with a game at Findlay Thursday night (December 4). Game time is set for 7:30 p.m.