ROCK SPRINGS, Wyo. (Interstat) — The Colorado Northwestern Spartans used a dominant first half and an efficient offensive performance to secure an 89-74 road victory over the Western Wyoming Mustangs in a men’s junior college basketball game Friday night.

The Spartans seized control of the contest from the opening tip, erupting for 45 points in the first quarter while holding the Mustangs to 26. That 19-point cushion proved insurmountable for Western Wyoming, which could not overcome the early deficit despite outscoring Colorado Northwestern 48-44 in the second quarter.

Colorado Northwestern’s offense operated with remarkable efficiency, scoring 89 points on just 66 possessions for an offensive rating of 129.6. The Spartans’ success was fueled by sharp perimeter shooting and an ability to capitalize on Western Wyoming mistakes. They shot 12 for 27 from three-point range and converted 20 of 26 attempts from the free throw line.

Conversely, Western Wyoming managed only 74 points on 72 possessions, an offensive rating of 102.8. The Mustangs struggled from beyond the arc, making just 5 of 19 three-point attempts, and were hampered by 13 turnovers compared to only 2 assists as a team. Colorado Northwestern’s defense was active, recording 8 steals.

Trey Johnson led the Spartans with a game-high 22 points and dished out 7 assists in 40 minutes of action. Finn Powelson added 20 points, while Jordan Jones provided a significant spark off the bench, scoring 16 points, all in the first half. Carter Killian contributed 12 points and a team-high 7 rebounds.

Despite the loss, Western Wyoming received strong individual efforts. Paulius Narvilas recorded a double-double with 24 points and 11 rebounds. Caelum Harris scored 15 points and blocked 2 shots, and Yair Aburus came off the bench to score 18 points for the Mustangs.

The game was characterized by foul trouble, with the two teams combining for 39 personal fouls. Western Wyoming was charged with 21 fouls, sending the Spartans to the line frequently, while Colorado Northwestern committed 18.

With the win, Colorado Northwestern evened its season record at 2-2. The loss dropped Western Wyoming to 1-3 on the young season. The result was an upset according to statistical projections, which had favored the Mustangs with a 66.2 percent probability to win.

Colorado Northwestern next plays at home against Central Wyoming on Nov. 21. Western Wyoming looks to rebound quickly, traveling to face Utah State Eastern on Saturday.