South Dakota, Western Illinois next up 

The North Dakota State men’s basketball team won their two games last week, beating Omaha on Thursday and Denver on Saturday. 

The Bison were able to hold off Omaha on Thursday, winning 71-64. The Mavericks were able to cut NDSU’s lead to one point in the second half three separate times, including the final time at 56-57 with nine minutes remaining, however, the Herd never relinquished the lead.  

NDSU was able to build up a 12-point lead in the first half, but the Mavericks were able to pull within three points going into the half at 37-34. 

Sam Griesel led the way for the Herd, scoring 17 points and grabbing nine rebounds. Additionally, Tyree Eady had 15 points while collecting a career-high five steals. Jarius Cook and Boden Skunberg joined them in double figures, each scoring 11.  

On Saturday, NDSU beat Denver 73-65 in a complete effort from the team. 

The Herd took a 37-30 lead into halftime and started the second half with a 7-1 run to go up by 13 with just under 18 minutes left. Denver was able to climb back to take a 47-46 lead, however, Cook responded with a corner three and the Bison never trailed again.  

Rocky Kreuser led the team in scoring with 23 points while securing eight rebounds. Eady, Grant Nelson and Cook each added 12 points as well to give the Herd a well-balanced scoring attack.  

With the wins, NDSU’s record improves to 16-8 on the season and 8-4 in Summit League play. They also remain in third place in the Summit League standing, behind first-place South Dakota State and second place Oral Roberts. 

Up next, the Herd has two more home games kicking off on Monday against South Dakota before taking on Western Illinois on Thursday.