KATY, Texas – The University of the Incarnate Word men's basketball team fell to Northwestern State University, 83-80, on Friday afternoon in its second game of the inaugural Southland Conference Tip-Off Event.
 
RJ Glasper led the Cardinal's offense with his second consecutive 20-point performance. Drew Lutz followed with 17 points and five assists, while Godsgift "GG" Ezedinma had a season-best performance of 15 points and six rebounds.


The Cardinals came out hot to the start of the game, using a 5-0 scoring run to take the lead. The Demons came back to tie the game at 11-all before Glasper hit a corner three to give the advantage back to UIW. Lutz tied the game for the second time of the first half at 16-16 before Northwestern State went on its own run to keep the advantage throughout the rest of the frame. Benjamin Griscti hit a three to pull the Cardinals within seven (46-39) heading into halftime.
 
NSU came out of the break with a fast-paced offense, extending its advantage to 12, but UIW responded, eventually cutting the Demon lead to five when Josh Morgan hit a corner three. Lutz followed with an and-one opportunity. Glasper then connected with Brandon Swaby with a no-look pass to bring a Demon timeout. Lutz went in for a strong drive to the basket and knocked down the pair of free throws to tie the game with 4:18 left in regulation before using a pull-up jumper to give the advantage (76-75) back to the Cardinals. The Demons got a couple of stops down court and were fouled, giving them the advantage. UIW attempted a 3-point shot with eight seconds left to tie the game, but it was off the mark. Northwestern State went on to secure the win, 83-80.
 
UP NEXT
The Cardinals continue competition on Saturday, the final day of the SLC Tip-Off Event, when they face Houston Baptist University at 11 a.m. CT.
 
FOLLOW ALONG
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on Twitter @UIWAtheltics, and like UIW Athletics on Facebook. Follow the team on Instagram @uiwmensbasketball and Twitter @UIWMBB