The Montana State University-Northern Lights put together a strong all-around performance Friday night, defeating the Second Seed Bellevue 83–74 in the Frontier Conference Tournament.

Northern wasted no time setting the tone. Leon Sayers IV opened the scoring with an early layup, and although Bellevue answered with a three-pointer to briefly take the lead, the Lights quickly found their rhythm. Luke Holecek sparked the offense midway through the first half, attacking the rim and converting a three-point play that helped Northern regain control. Austin Ramos followed with a three-pointer of his own as the Lights began to stretch the margin.

Bellevue kept things close with timely outside shooting, but Northern's balanced attack proved difficult to slow down. Tracen Jilot provided an offensive lift off the bench, knocking down key shots to maintain momentum. The Lights closed the half on a strong note, taking a 42–33 lead into the break.

Coming out of halftime, Bellevue applied pressure and looked to chip away at the deficit. The Bruins found success inside and at the free-throw line, trimming the lead to single digits. Each time Bellevue threatened, however, Northern responded. Cinque Maxwell converted from the stripe, while Sayers and Ramos attacked the basket to keep the Lights comfortably in front.

Midway through the second half, Bellevue hit a crucial three-pointer to pull within striking distance, but Northern answered with defensive stops and efficient offense in transition. The Lights capitalized on turnovers and limited second-chance opportunities, maintaining control of the pace.

Down the stretch, Northern sealed the game at the free-throw line. Calm execution in the final minutes prevented Bellevue from mounting a late comeback, and the Lights closed out the 83–74 victory.

Key Performers for Northern:

• Luke Holecek led all scorers with 20 points, showing efficiency from deep and at the free-throw line.
• Austin Ramos contributed a strong all-around effort with 17 points, adding defensive pressure and rebounds.
• Tracen Jilot provided a timely spark off the bench with 15 points, helping swing the momentum in Montana State-Northern's favor.

Bellevue's Top Contributors:

• Jaden Phillips led the Bruins with 22 points, finding success in the mid-range and attacking the paint.
• RJ Smith added 15 points and controlled the glass with 9 rebounds.
• Ahamad Bynum chipped in 14 points in a tough, competitive effort for Bellevue.

 
The Lights will play on Sunday at 7:30, but stay tuned on who they play.