Next Game:
at Lake Superior State University
11/26/2024 | 1:00 PM
The University of Minnesota Duluth men’s basketball team closed out their final game of the inaugural St. Louis County Basketball Classic this evening, banking in on a huge first half performance from Mattie Thompson on their way to a 79-67 win over the Northern Michigan Wildcats.
Final Score: UMD (79) – NMU (67)
After an initial 8-8 tie, UMD seized control of the game with an impressive 10-point scoring run, highlighted by a bucket from Kole Hanson at the 12:13 mark in the first half. This surge propelled the Bulldogs to an 18-8 lead. By halftime, UMD had extended their advantage to 37-24, largely due to their impressive three-point shooting, which contributed 21 of their 37 halftime points.
The Bulldogs maintained their momentum into the second half, executing an 8-0 run to push their lead to 49-35 with 15:18 remaining. Although the Wildcats fought back, out-pacing UMD 32-30 in the final quarter, the Bulldogs skillfully defended their early lead, ultimately finishing the game with a 79-67 victory. UMD continued to excel from beyond the arc in the second half, netting seven three-pointers to score 21 of their 42 points during that period.
Bulldog Notes vs. NMU
The Bulldogs boast an impressive 5-0 start to the 2024-25 season, marking their best beginning since the 2021-22 campaign, during which they won their first 16 games before suffering a mid-January loss to Upper Iowa University.
Thompson was the standout performer for the Bulldogs, scoring 22 points and recording two blocks. Caleb Siwek contributed a solid 20 points, while Charlie Katona made a significant impact with a double-double, featuring 18 points and 17 rebounds. Collectively, these three players generated an astounding 76% of the Bulldogs’ total points.
UMD showcased exceptional ball movement throughout the game, accumulating 16 assists on 27 successful field goals. Austin Andrews led the Bulldogs with three individual assists.
Looking Ahead
Bulldog men’s basketball gears up for one more non-conference matchup with Lake Superior State University before beginning their NSIC schedule. Tip-off against the Lakers is currently set for Tuesday, Nov. 26, at 1:00 PM.
### Interview with UMD Men’s Basketball Coach, John Smith
### Interview with UMD Men’s Basketball Coach, John Smith
**Editor:** Welcome, Coach Smith! Congratulations on the recent victory against Northern Michigan. That must have been an exhilarating finish to the St. Louis County Basketball Classic.
**Coach Smith:** Thank you! It was a great way to wrap up the tournament. The team really showed up, especially in that first half. Mattie Thompson’s performance was outstanding, and it set the tone for us.
**Editor:** You mentioned Mattie Thompson’s impact. Can you tell us more about how he performed?
**Coach Smith:** Absolutely. Mattie was instrumental in our offense. His ability to score effectively and create opportunities for others made a significant difference. After a tight start at 8-8, he was pivotal in driving us forward. His energy ignited the team during that crucial 10-point run.
**Editor:** It sounds like the momentum really shifted during that run. How important do you think it is for your team to start strong in future games?
**Coach Smith:** Starting strong is essential. It builds confidence and sets the rhythm for the game. When we can establish a lead early, it allows us to control the pace and play our game. The challenge is maintaining that intensity throughout the entire game, which we did well against Northern Michigan.
**Editor:** Looking ahead, your next game is at Lake Superior State University on November 26th. What are your thoughts on preparing for that matchup?
**Coach Smith:** We’re excited for that game! Lake Superior State is always a competitive opponent. Our focus will be on maintaining our defensive schemes and tightening up any loose ends from the last game. We need to continue learning and evolving as a team.
**Editor:** Do you anticipate any changes in strategy for that game based on what you observed in the previous game?
**Coach Smith:** Each opponent is unique, so we’ll analyze their style of play and adjust our game plan accordingly. That said, we will stick to what has worked for us and not overcomplicate things. Consistency is key.
**Editor:** Fantastic insights, Coach. what are your hopes for the team as the season progresses?
**Coach Smith:** My hope is to keep developing our young players while striving for victory in each game. Building team chemistry and learning from every win and loss will prepare us for the tougher challenges ahead in the season.
**Editor:** Thank you for your time, Coach Smith. We wish you and the Bulldogs the best of luck in your upcoming game!
**Coach Smith:** Thank you! We appreciate the support!
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This short interview showcases Coach Smith’s thoughts on the team’s recent performance and preparations while giving insights into their upcoming matchup against Lake Superior State University. For more updates on UMD men’s basketball, you can visit their official athletics site [[1](https://umdbulldogs.com/sports/mens-basketball)].
