Northern Kentucky Outlasts Wofford Behind Oday’s 27 Points

HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. (Interstat) — In a game defined by offensive efficiency and a parade to the free-throw line, the Northern Kentucky Norse used a dominant performance inside and a career-high from Donovan Oday to outlast the Wofford Terriers 93-83 in a non-conference men’s basketball game Wednesday afternoon at BB&T Arena.

A crowd of 1,574 saw the Norse improve to 5-2 on the season, while the Terriers fell to 4-3.

Northern Kentucky’s offense operated with precision, scoring 93 points on 76 possessions for an offensive rating of 122.1. The Norse shot 52 percent from the field, connecting on 31 of 60 attempts, and their success was rooted in the paint where they outscored Wofford 52 to 30. They also capitalized at the charity stripe, making 26 of 34 free throws.

Wofford, which posted a solid offensive rating of 113.0 itself, struggled to find a consistent shooting rhythm from the field, finishing 22 of 54. The Terriers kept the game competitive largely through a relentless attack that drew fouls, attempting 43 free throws and making 32. However, their offense was hampered by a lack of ball movement, managing only four assists against 11 turnovers.

The first half was a tightly contested affair, with Northern Kentucky taking a slim 45-43 lead into the break. The Norse began to create separation early in the second period, methodically extending their lead by consistently answering every Wofford push.

Oday, a guard from Arlington, Texas, was the catalyst for the Norse, pouring in 27 points in just 30 minutes of action. He was instrumental in breaking down the Wofford defense, both by drawing contact and finishing at the rim.

He was complemented by a formidable frontcourt presence from LJ Wells. The 6-foot-8 forward from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, delivered a complete performance with 18 points, eight rebounds and three blocks, anchoring the Norse defense which tallied nine total blocks. Dan Gherezgher added 21 points for Northern Kentucky.

Wofford was led by the scoring of Kahmare Holmes, who tallied 21 points and five rebounds. Nils Machowski recorded a double-double for the Terriers, contributing 15 points and 11 rebounds while also dishing out four assists. Maximo Ortega provided a spark off the bench with 12 points.

The game was a battle of contrasting styles. Northern Kentucky’s superior size and interior scoring proved to be the difference, overcoming Wofford’s gritty, foul-drawing approach. The Norse also won the turnover battle, committing nine to Wofford’s 11, and converted those into 11 points.

The victory extends Northern Kentucky’s home winning streak as they prepare to host Boston University on Saturday. Wofford will look to rebound on the road against Eastern Kentucky, also on Saturday.