Northwestern State pulled off a stunning upset at Prather Coliseum, taking down Texas Rio Grande Valley 64-63 in a nail-biting contest. The Demons, with a record of 6-14, were significant underdogs against the Vaqueros, who boasted a 10-11 record and a net ranking of 169. However, Northwestern State's determination and resilience paid off, as they secured a monumental victory that will undoubtedly send shockwaves through the college basketball landscape.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams struggling to gain a decisive advantage. At halftime, the score was tied at 28-28, setting the stage for a intense second half. Micah Thomas, Northwestern State's top performer, led the charge with 17 points and 5 assists, while Willie Williams chipped in with 14 points and 8 rebounds. Chris Mubiru also made significant contributions, scoring 10 points to help the Demons' cause.
Texas Rio Grande Valley's Filip Brankovic was the game's top scorer, tallying 19 points in a valiant effort to lead his team to victory. Koree Cotton and Julien Gomez also made notable contributions, scoring 14 and 9 points, respectively. Despite their best efforts, however, the Vaqueros were unable to overcome the Demons' gritty performance.
The second half saw both teams trade baskets, with neither able to establish a comfortable lead. In the end, it was Northwestern State's defense that made the crucial plays, holding off a late Texas Rio Grande Valley surge to secure the 64-63 win. The victory is a reflection of the Demons' never-say-die attitude and their ability to rise to the occasion against a formidable opponent.
This upset win has real consequences for both teams' resumes. For Northwestern State, the victory is a Quadrant 4 win, which, while not ideal, is still a much-needed boost to their tournament chances. The Demons' net ranking of 299 makes it an uphill battle to secure a postseason berth, but this win demonstrates that they are capable of competing against tougher opponents. On the other hand, the loss is a Quadrant 4 defeat for Texas Rio Grande Valley, which could potentially harm their tournament aspirations. The Vaqueros' net ranking of 169 makes them a borderline candidate for the postseason, and this loss may drop them further down the rankings.
The magnitude of this upset cannot be overstated. Northwestern State's victory over Texas Rio Grande Valley is a statement win that showcases their potential and determination. While the Demons still face an uphill battle in their pursuit of a tournament berth, this win serves as a crucial building block for their resume. As the season progresses, Northwestern State want to build on this momentum, and this upset victory will undoubtedly be a defining moment in their campaign.