Aberdeen, S.D. – The Northern State University men's basketball team defeated Upper Iowa University 83-72 in the first of two I Hate Winter games. With the win, the Wolves improve to 17-6 overall and 13-4 in the NSIC.
 
Heading into the contest the Peacocks sat first in the NSIC South and second in the league overall. UIU dropped to second in the South and fourth in the league, behind the now third place Wolves following the loss. Northern battled throughout the game, defending their home court in front of 4490 fans. The atmosphere was electric with fans on their feet throughout the game.
 
The Wolves trailed 30-33 at the half, however shot 63.0 percent from the floor in the second scoring 53 points to secure the victory. NSU out-rebounded UIU by 11 in the win with 43 total. The Wolves also tallied 34 points in the paint, 12 points off turnovers, ten second chance points, and 21 points off the bench. The two teams traded the lead on four occasions with six tie scores. Northern held their largest lead of 11 points in the final minute of action, which held on for the final.
 
Ian Smith led four scorers in double figures with 18 points and a career high 12 rebounds. Smith shot 53.3 percent from the floor and notched an assist and a steal. He was followed by Logan Doyle with 15 points and ten rebounds. Doyle was perfect from the floor going 6-for-6, and added a team leading four blocks. DJ Pollard and Mack Arvidson rounded out the double-digit scorers with 13 points each. Pollard notched five rebounds and a team leading five assists.
 
Justin Decker led the team off the bench with eight points, followed by Jonny Dahl with seven. Brayden McNeary and Gabe King followed with three points apiece, while Carter Evans notched two points and four rebounds.
 
Northern State return to action tomorrow for the I Hate Winter basketball finale versus Winona State. The Wolves and Warriors will tip-off at 6 p.m. from Wachs Arena.