HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. — Oakland (6-6, 2-0 HL) secured an 82-77 victory over Northern Kentucky (9-4, 1-2 HL) on Wednesday at Truist Arena in Highland Heights. The Golden Grizzlies maintained a narrow lead throughout the clash, withstanding a late second-half surge from the Norse. NKU closed the gap to three points in the final minutes, but Oakland's key contributions included 40 points in the paint, and a zone defense that tallied seven steals and 27 rebounds to clinch the win.
"They [Northern Kentucky] is one of the best teams in causing turnovers statistically in steals. And they are one of the best offensive rebounding teams in the country," said head coach Greg Kampe. "Within the first five minutes of the game, they had seven offensive rebounds, then the rest of the game [half] they had six. And the entire second half, they had four. We didn't turn the ball over, which we are really good at, and this game was a battle of winning the turnovers against a team who leads the nation in them."
Fifth-year Michael Houge led the team with 18 points and eight rebounds, converting all four of his free-throw attempts. Junior Isaac Garrett contributed a double-double for the second-straight game with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while also dishing out five assists. Senior Brody Robinson tallied 16 points and was perfect from the line with eight makes, adding six assists. Junior Khoi Thurmon made an impact on defense, recording four steals, and bringing about a season-high points on offense for the point guard.
Oakland started the first half with a quick pace, highlighted by Senior Ziare Wells' fast-break layup at 19:21. The team capitalized on turnovers and fast breaks, building the momentum and taking an early lead. Oakland's offensive efforts were supported by strong performances from Garrett, who contributed with multiple field goals including a fast-break dunk, and Robinson, who added a key three-pointer.
The half saw Oakland and NKU exchange leads multiple times, with the Golden Grizzlies maintaining composure through effective free-throw shooting and timely stops. Oakland's defensive rebounds proved crucial in keeping the pressure on the Norse, and Houge's consistent scoring helped keep the visitors slightly ahead. The half concluded with Oakland leading 41–38, after a late fast-break layup by Robinson.
Oakland began the second half by regaining momentum with a three-pointer from their leading scorer at 17:48, which established a slim lead over the home team. Houge contributed significantly with an offensive rebound and tip-in at 16:52, maintaining Oakland's advantage in the paint. The team continued to build on this momentum with a three-pointer from Wells at 15:23, pushing the score ahead by two possessions in favor of Oakland.
As the half progressed, OU managed to sustain its lead with an exchange of scoring plays. Garrett's paint jumper at 8:23 and fifth-year Brett White II's layup at 6:53 further cemented their position. White II's performance was notable as he recorded double-digit points in consecutive games, leading the Golden Grizzlies off the bench. The Norse closed the gap to tie the game at 66 apiece, but Oakland responded with a critical three-pointer from Thurmon at 4:28, his first of the season, retaking the lead.
In the closing minutes, Oakland's defense held firm, and Robinson's successful free throws after intentional fouls in the last seconds secured the win. The half concluded with Oakland outscoring NKU with 41 points, finishing the game with a five point victory in Horizon League action.
The Golden Grizzlies are back in-state for their annual matchup with Tom Izzo and No. 9 Michigan State on Saturday, Dec. 20, at 12 p.m. ET. The game will take place at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit and available to watch on the Big Ten Network.
How to Follow Oakland Men's Basketball: For complete information on Oakland Men's Basketball follow the team on X at @OaklandMBB and head coach Greg Kampe at @KampeOU. The team is also on Instagram and Facebook.
