The Montana State University-Northern Lights men's basketball team opened its 2026-27 season on a winning note Friday afternoon, earning a 68-56 victory over Walla Walla University at the Armory Gymnasium.
Northern established control early, putting together a strong first-half performance to take a 45-22 advantage into the break. The Lights shot 50 percent from the field and connected on six three-pointers in the opening 20 minutes.
Luke Holecek led the Northern offense with 14 points, including two three-pointers, while adding five rebounds, three assists and two steals. Cinque Maxwell also delivered a strong performance, finishing with 12 points and three rebounds while going 6-for-6 from the free-throw line.
Claysen Delp contributed nine points, including two three-pointers, while Austin Ramos added eight points, eight rebounds and two assists. Jonny Gasologa provided a spark off the bench with eight points and a team-high nine rebounds.
The Lights also received contributions throughout the lineup. Jeffrey Tjelde finished with four points, three rebounds and two blocks, while Tracen Jilot added four points, five rebounds and two steals. Bohdi Brenden chipped in three points, connecting on his lone three-point attempt.
Northern's defensive effort helped establish the early advantage, holding Walla Walla to 27.6 percent shooting in the first half. The Lights also controlled the glass, finishing with a 45-30 rebounding advantage and collecting 19 offensive rebounds.
Walla Walla attempted to close the gap in the second half, scoring 34 points, but Northern maintained its lead throughout the contest to secure the 12-point victory.
The Lights finished the afternoon shooting 40 percent from the field and 24.1 percent from beyond the arc. Northern also recorded 17 assists and 10 steals while scoring 36 points in the paint.
With the season-opening victory, Northern moves to 1-0 on the year and looks to carry its momentum into its next contest.
