The Raiders started the game off with an 8 to 0 run. Connor Entzi would get the first points of the Vikings season when he would make a 3-pointer. The Raiders would shake that off, and continue to shoot the lights out in the first half. Northwestern was doing everything right in the first half and hitting just about every shot they took. The Raiders really made it a point to drive the lane and attack the basket. Anytime the Vikings would try and battle back, the Raiders always had an answer to stop any threat. Northwestern would keep the pressure on all the way until the final buzzer when Matt Onken would put a lay up as time expired, off of a missed shot to give the Raiders the 49-26 lead at the half. Alex Van Kalsbeek with 14 points in the first half to lead the Raiders, Kevin Schramm with 9 first half points to lead VCSU.

The Raiders opened the second half by going on a 6-0 run to extend their lead to 55-26. However, VCSU would change up their strategy and start to attack the paint more. Kevin Schramm would continue to pick up points down low to chip away at the big deficit. Unfortunately for the Vikings, Northwestern just continued to make their shots and build upon their lead. The Vikings would get a strong second half from Duoth Gach who would finish the night with 12 points. Kevin Schramm also had a solid opening night, as he finished with 18 points. In the end, the Raiders were able to control the pace of the game on their home court as they win this one 85 to 65.

VCSU Leaders on the Night

Points: Kevin Schramm (18)

Assists: Josh Kelly (3)

Rebounds: Kevin Schramm (10)

With the loss the Vikings fall to 0-1 to start the season. Next up for VCSU, they return to action Saturday night when they are on the road in Iowa once again, this time to take on Dordt University for a 7:30PM tip-off, and you can hear that game on KOVC.