UPDATE: In a thrilling overtime finish, the Northern Colorado Bears defeated the Pepperdine Waves 88-81 in a nail-biting game that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The game, held on January 15, 2025, showcased stellar performances from both teams, but it was Northern Colorado’s determination that clinched the victory.
With the score tied at the end of regulation, Northern Colorado turned up the heat in overtime, outscoring Pepperdine. The game featured standout performances, particularly from Jared Denker, who led the Bears with 26 points and made key free throws down the stretch. Max Bloch and Sam Wisne each contributed 16 points, providing essential support for the team.
Northern Colorado dominated the boards with a total of 42 rebounds, led by Wisne and Nyeri, each grabbing 10 rebounds. This rebounding advantage allowed them to control the tempo and secure crucial second-chance opportunities. Meanwhile, Pepperdine’s efforts were led by Michael Phipps with 22 points and 20 points from Jeffrey Clark, but it was not enough to overcome the fierce Bears.
The game started with Northern Colorado taking a strong lead, finishing the first half at 41-31. However, Pepperdine came out of the locker room determined, closing the gap and forcing overtime with a series of clutch plays.
In the extra period, Northern Colorado capitalized on their momentum, sinking critical three-pointers, including four from Max Bloch. The Bears shot 30 of 62 from the field and hit 9 of 26 from beyond the arc, showcasing a well-rounded offensive strategy.
Why This Matters Now: This victory not only boosts Northern Colorado’s morale but also places them in a prime position as they head deeper into the season. Fans and analysts alike are buzzing with excitement over the potential implications for postseason play.
As both teams reflect on this high-stakes clash, eyes will now turn to the next matchups. Northern Colorado will aim to build on this momentum, while Pepperdine will look to regroup and learn from this hard-fought battle.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds, and watch for upcoming games that promise to deliver more thrilling action.
