The Montana State University–Northern Lights hold off Simpson University (Calif.) 72–67 on Friday in Great Falls.

The Lights controlled the tempo early, using balanced scoring and solid defense to take a 31–21 lead into halftime. Northern's ball movement created open looks from deep, while the defense forced the Red Hawks into just 28 percent shooting in the opening period.

Simpson came out firing in the second half, cutting into the double-digit deficit behind the hot hand of Nian Allen, who scored 22 points on 8-of-14 shooting. The Red Hawks shot over 53% from the field and 62 percent from three after halftime to make things interesting late, but Northern's composure and bench depth kept the visitors at bay.

Austin Ramos led the Lights with 19 points, adding five rebounds and five assists. Luke Holecek provided a huge spark off the bench, scoring 16 points in just 13 minutes while hitting 6-of-7 from the floor. The Lights' bench outscored Simpson's 27–7, a key factor in maintaining their lead.

For Simpson, Allen's 22 points and Timothy Parker's 14 points and five assists led the offense. The Red Hawks outscored Northern 46–41 in the second half but couldn't overcome the early deficit.

The Lights shot 41 percent from the field and 32 percent from three while holding Simpson to 40 percent overall. Northern also forced 14 turnovers, converting them into 16 points.

With the win, MSU–Northern improves to 1–1 to start the season. The Lights will look to build on the momentum when they return to the court next week.