MARSHALL, Minn. - Senior guard Craig Nelson surpassed the 1,000 point mark of his collegiate career Friday night as the Wolves shot their way to an 83-62 NSIC win over Southwest Minnesota State. The Wolves shot a season high 70.2 percent from the field for their fifth straight game hitting at least .500 shooting.
The Wolves opened the game up in the second half, keeping the Mustangs scoreless on eight of nine straight possessions to go up 78-54 with five minutes to play. Northern's second half shooting was nearly flawless. They sunk 16-of-19 field goals for a mark of 84.2%.
Nelson hit the 1,000 point mark with his 14th point of the night. Fittingly, Nelson had one of the best shooting nights of his career, hitting 8-of-10 field goals, including 5-of-7 three-pointers, for 21 points. He also dished out five assists.
Kevin Ratzsch also had a good night shooting, connecting on 9-of-13 field goals for 21 points. The Wolves shot a season high 70.2% from the field. This is the fifth straight time that Northern has shot above 50% in a game. Northern shot 60.7% in the first half as they went into the break with a 40-32 lead.
The Mustangs committed 15 turnovers as their three-game winning streak over NSU came to a staggering halt. SMSU's greatest lead was a short-lived three point advantage within a minute after the tip. Ross DeMasi topped the team in points and rebounds, dumping in 13 points and 7 boards. Matt Fletcher added 11 points. The Mustangs came out on top in the rebounding column with 30 to NSU's 23.
The Wolves bring a 7-1 overall record and 2-1 NSIC record to Saturday evening's game with Wayne State College (6-3, 2-1 NSIC). The Mustangs fall to 4-3 overall and 2-1 in league play.
