Northwestern State broke open a sluggish home opener with a late defensive stand and improved second-half offense, beating Millsaps 77-49. Kai Simpson led five Demons in double figures with 17 points; Isaiah Vick added 12 points and 11 rebounds.

By the Numbers
  • Final score: Northwestern State 77, Millsaps 49.
  • Northwestern State held Millsaps to 1-for-16 shooting over the final 10:56.
  • The Demons scored 22-2 in the paint in the second half and shot 59.1% from the field after halftime.
  • Five Demons scored at least 10 points; nine of the 11 players who appeared scored.
Yes, But

Northwestern State’s offense struggled early, shooting 35.7% in the first half and making just one of seven 3-point attempts. Millsaps, playing the game as an exhibition, cut the lead to 10 before the Demons pulled away.

What's Next

The Demons visit Little Rock on Saturday. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. at the Jack Stephens Center.

Bottom Line

Northwestern State turned a shaky start into a decisive win by leaning on its defense and attacking the paint after halftime.