MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Northeastern State outlasted Christian Brothers for the second time this season in a tightly contested non-conference matchup on Sunday evening, securing a 76-72 victory at Canale Arena.
The RiverHawks (6-4) were led by a standout performance from guard Trey Phipps, who scored a game-high 28 points. Phipps, the offensive engine for NSU, shot 9-for-21 from the field, including three 3-pointers, and converted 7 of 8 free throws. His six assists and four rebounds underscored his all-around impact in the victory.
Through ten games played, Phipps is two points short of 250 this season, and Sunday's effort was the senior's eighth 20-point outing.
In the season's first meeting with the Bucs on Nov. 23, NSU claimed a 78-75 victory inside the Event Center with Phipps leading the scoring with 21 points.
NSU forward Ethan Blackmon also made his presence felt, contributing 13 points on an efficient 6-for-7 shooting while pulling down seven rebounds. Jaxon Jones added eight points and six assists while providing six rebounds.
The RiverHawks entered halftime with a narrow 38-34 lead, showcasing a strong inside game that resulted in 36 points in the paint. Christian Brothers (4-5) kept pace by hitting 12 three-pointers and sharing the ball well, as they tallied 25 assists on their 27 made baskets.
Christian Brothers was paced by Iman Kheirati, who delivered a double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds. Tane Kirisome added 11 points, while Allen Hughes chipped in 12 points and dished out a team-high nine assists. Despite their best efforts, the Buccaneers struggled with turnovers, committing 13 to Northeastern State's 10.
The second half turned into a back-and-forth affair, with both teams exchanging leads six times. Northeastern State gained separation late, thanks to timely defensive stops and clutch free-throw shooting. Phipps sank two key free throws with 39 seconds remaining to give the RiverHawks a four-point cushion, effectively sealing the game.
NSU's defensive effort was anchored by Koen Derry, who contributed four rebounds and two blocks in 12 minutes. The RiverHawks held Christian Brothers to 28 points in the paint and capitalized on their defensive rebounds to fuel transition opportunities.
Taven Washington paced the NSU bench with 11 points and Bryson Smith added nine with five rebounds and five assists.
The victory marks NSU's fourth win in five games, giving the team momentum heading into Tuesday's showdown in Joplin where they will see Missouri Southern at 7:30 p.m.
