“Unbelievable Overtime Victory! Sycamores Dominate NKU in Thrilling Opener – All the Highlights and Breakout Performances Revealed!”
The clash on Sycamores Monday night between Indiana State and Northern Kentucky extended beyond the regulation 40 minutes, concluding in overtime. Despite the closely contested battle, the visiting Sycamores emerged victorious, securing a 1-0 start to the season with an 85-82 triumph over the Norse at Truist Arena.
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Bella Finnegan led the scoring charts with an impressive 25 points, supported by Kiley Bess, who achieved a career-high 22 points and contributed six rebounds in her debut as a Sycamore. Mya Glanton narrowly missed a double-double, and Chelsea Cain added 14 points and seven rebounds to the winning effort.
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Sycamores
Indiana State took an early six-point lead, fueled by consecutive three-pointers from Finnegan. They maintained an advantage, leading by as much as eight in the first quarter. However, NKU staged a comeback in the second half, briefly taking a five-point lead in the fourth quarter. Critical shots from Bess and Cain forced the game into overtime, where Indiana State’s defense limited NKU to just one field goal in seven attempts, securing the season-opening victory.
On the Road Again
The upcoming game against Missouri marks the end of Indiana State’s two-game road trip to kick off the season. The Sycamores, now 1-0 on the road under Coach Killinger, look to build on their success at NKU.
Kiley Bess’s Breakout
Senior guard Kiley Bess had a stellar start to her Indiana State career, playing a pivotal role in the team’s opening win. Bess set personal records with 22 points, six rebounds, and five assists, showcasing her all-around skills in her debut. Her significant contributions included crucial shots and a notable 40 minutes of playing time.
Dominating the Boards
Under Coach Killinger’s guidance, Indiana State has prioritized offensive rebounds, and the trend continued in the season opener. Outrebounding Northern Kentucky 46-30, the Sycamores secured 17 offensive rebounds, translating them into 12 second-chance points.
Defensive Prowess
Known for their abilityto force turnovers, Indiana State lived up to the reputation by creating 20 takeaways in the season opener against Northern Kentucky. These turnovers were converted into 22 points, with fastbreak opportunities leading to an additional 20 points.
Facing Powerhouses
The upcoming game against Missouri is Indiana State’s third encounter with a Power Five opponent during Coach Chad Killinger’s tenure. The Sycamores aim to improve their record against such formidable teams after losses to Nebraska and Purdue in previous seasons.
A Full-Circle Moment
Assistant coach Alexis Newbolt, in her first season with Indiana State, experiences a full-circle moment. Having played for the Sycamores during the 2014-15 season, coinciding with the last time they earned votes in the AP Top 25, Newbolt also shares a prior connection with Coach Killinger from her playing days at Moberly Area CC.
Scouting Missouri
Missouri enters the upcoming game with a 1-0 record, defeating Belmont in their season opener. Preseason All-SEC selection Hayley Frank and Mama Dembele led the Tigers with 15 points each in the victory.
Series History
Missouri holds a 2-0 lead in the all-time series against Indiana State. The teams last met during the 2016-17 season, with Missouri securing a 77-48 win.
Looking Ahead
Following the matchup with Missouri, Indiana State returns home for their first game of the season at Hulman Center on November 15, facing Illinois-Springfield in an 11 a.m. tip-off. The home opener also serves as the Sycamores’ Education Day game, with middle school students from Vigo and Clay County in attendance.
