FAIRBANKS, Alaska – Northwest Nazarene men's basketball delivered a strong, wire-to-wire performance Thursday night, defeating Alaska Fairbanks 78–64 in the opening game of its Alaska road trip.
The Nighthawks set the tone early and never relinquished control, leading for 37:53 of the 40 minute contest and holding the Nanooks without a lead throughout the second half. NNU's balanced attack, efficient shooting, and defensive presence inside proved too much for Alaska Fairbanks to overcome.
Northwest Nazarene opened the game shooting efficiently and establishing its interior presence on both ends of the floor. The Nighthawks shot 50 percent from the field in the first half and used a steady offensive rhythm to build a 39–30 halftime advantage. Alaska Fairbanks briefly trimmed the margin early in the second period, but NNU consistently answered with timely baskets and stops.
Midway through the second half, the Nighthawks seized full control of the game, pushing the lead to 18 points with just under 14 minutes remaining. From there, NNU continued to execute offensively, knocking down shots from the perimeter and converting around the rim while limiting second-chance opportunities for the Nanooks.
Jaden Byers paced the Nighthawks with 15 points, shooting 6-of-10 from the field and connecting on a key three-pointer late in the game to halt an Alaska Fairbanks push. Easton Reagan matched Byers with 15 points, adding six rebounds and three assists, while consistently attacking the basket and finishing through contact.
The Nighthawks controlled the paint on both ends, led by Michael Day, who recorded 10 points, eight rebounds, and a game-high five blocks. Day's defensive presence altered numerous shots
and helped anchor a NNU defense that forced 13 turnovers and held Alaska Fairbanks to contested looks throughout the night.
Briggs Ranstrom provided a strong all-around performance with eight rebounds and four assists, while Garrett Hawkes contributed 10 points, five rebounds, and two assists in 28 minutes of action. RJ Chatman knocked down a pair of three-pointers off the bench, and Nathan Perez added six points while going a perfect 3-for-3 from the free-throw line.
Northwest Nazarene finished the night shooting 52.7 percent from the field, 37.5 percent from three-point range, and 73.3 percent at the free-throw line, while winning the rebounding battle 36–29. The Nighthawks also received contributions from multiple players, with nine different NNU players scoring in the contest.
Following the win, the Nighthawks moved to 13-7 on the season, and 7-4 in GNAC conference play, keeping them fourth of ten teams. The Nighthawks continue their Alaskan road trip on Saturday as they face off against Alaska Anchorage at 9pm Mountain Time.
