Men's Basketball wins home-opener

Men's Basketball picked up its first win of the 2024-25 season on Wednesday.

In the Ravens home-opener, they defeated Haskell Indian Nations University 84-58.

The Ravens took a 15-point lead into the break thanks to strong shooting and solid defense. The Ravens shot 54.2% from the field in the opening 20 minutes, including 7-of-14 shooting from behind the 3-point line.

Defensively, the Ravens held Haskell to 25.7% shooting and outrebounded the visitors 25-14. The Ravens did commit 15 turnovers in the opening half giving Haskell extra possessions, but the Ravens still held a 37-22 lead at the break.

In the Ravens first three games of the year, they had a tough time in the second half of games. That wasn't the case Wednesday as the Ravens out-scored Haskell 47-36 to earn the 26-point win.

The Ravens strong shooting continued in the second half as they finished the game shooting 57.4% from the floor and 12-26 from deep. Harrison Kisling was the only Raven in double-digits, scoring 16 points, as the Ravens featured a balanced offensive attack. Brycen LaRue and Haggan Hilgendorf both scored 9 points, Jack Vander Woude and Larry Parker III eached added 8 points, and Bence Duka and Deaglan Sullivan both scored 7 points.

The Ravens a 12-rebound advantage against Haskell with Vander Woude leading the way with 9 boards. LaRue dished out 5 assists to go with 3 steals, and Sullivan added 4 assists. The Ravens were also able to limit their turnovers in the final 20 minutes, committing just 5 in the second half.

The Ravens (1-3) jump right into Heart of America Conference play when they travel to Peru State College on Wednesday, Nov. 13.