MISSOULA, Mont. (Interstat) — The Montana Grizzlies defeated the Northern Colorado Bears 88-79 in a Big Sky Conference men’s basketball game Saturday at Dahlberg Arena.

Montana led 34-25 at halftime before both teams erupted for 54 points each in the second half. The Grizzlies’ cushion proved sufficient to withstand the Bears’ improved second-half offense in front of 3,430 fans.

The victory improved Montana’s record to 8-7 overall and 2-0 in conference play. Northern Colorado fell to 10-5 and 0-2 in the Big Sky. Montana was a pregame favorite and the combined score went under the projected total.