The Northern State men's basketball team (10-4, 6-2 NSIC) defeated the Winona State Warriors (7-7, 4-4 NSIC) in thrilling fashion Saturday night for a 72-68 victory.

With under 21 seconds left in regulation the Wolves held a slim 1-point lead and Parker Fox found himself at the foul line. Fox had been just 7-of-15 from that line all night, but when his team needed him most he came up clutch, cashing in both shots and extending the lead.

However, Winona responded, and with just 12 seconds remaining the Wolves were in the same predicament. But as a Warriors player broke for the hoop, Fox leaped into the air and slammed the ball against the backboard, blocking the shot and effectively ending the game with 0.3 seconds remaining to secure the victory.

The Wolves got off to a great start in the game, scoring on each of their first four possessions for a 10-point run. However, Winona State's 3-point game kept them within reach as the Wolves took a 45-43 lead into halftime.

Northern kicked off the second with another good start as they opened up an 8-point lead in the opening minutes. However, the going remained tough as the Warriors would catch up and keep pace throughout the half.

The Wolves put an end to Winona State's relentless 3-point shooting from the first, holding them to just 2-of-16 in the second half. Without the the threat of the deep ball Northern's defense was able to take hold, helping them to a 72-68 victory. 

The Wolves finished the night going 45.6% from the floor, 46.7% from beyond the arc, and 52.0% from the foul line. 34 of their points came from the paint, seven from turnovers and another seven off the bench.

Parker Fox lit up the scoreboard all night long, grabbing 12 rebounds and going 12-of-23 for a career high 35 points. The next best on the scoreboard were Mason Stark and Tommy Chatman with 11 and ten points respectively.

Andrew Kallman matched his career high in rebounds with eight and managed six points and four assists. Meanwhile, Jordan Belka led the team off the bench with four rebounds and five points.

Rounding out the scoreboard were Gabe King and Cole Dahl, combining for six rebounds and three and two points respectively.

Up next the Wolves travel to Crookston, Minnesota to play the University of Minnesota Crookston. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Lysaker Gymnasium on January 10.