Preview: Northern Colorado Bears at Northern Arizona Lumberjacks

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (Interstat) — Two Big Sky Conference teams looking to halt slides will meet Saturday when the Northern Colorado Bears visit the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks at Walkup Skydome.

Northern Colorado (11-9) enters on a five-game losing streak, most recently falling 73-68 to Montana State on Monday. Despite the skid, the Bears have been competitive, with three of those losses by five points or fewer. Guard Brock Wisne has been a consistent bright spot, averaging 15.2 points over his last eight games. He scored 18 points with five assists in the loss to Montana State.

Northern Arizona (6-14) has lost seven straight, including a 98-72 home defeat to Montana on Monday. The Lumberjacks have struggled offensively during the slump, failing to reach 70 points in four of those losses. Guard Karl Poom has provided sparks, scoring 16 points against Montana and 22 in a close loss to Idaho State on Jan. 10.

The matchup features a contrast in recent form. Northern Colorado’s record includes a notable non-conference road win at Colorado in December, demonstrating a higher ceiling. Northern Arizona has found wins scarce, with its last victory coming against non-Division I Benedictine Mesa on Dec. 29.

This game begins the second half of the Big Sky schedule for both teams. They will meet again in Greeley on Feb. 21.

For Northern Colorado, halting its streak is crucial to stay in the upper half of the conference standings. For Northern Arizona, protecting home court is vital to build momentum for a difficult closing stretch.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026.