Wolves Bounce Back Against
Physical Winona Opponent

February 28, 2004

WINONA, MN - Many people were waiting to see how the Wolves would handle their first loss in over a month. The Wolves answered any question about their ability and heart with an inspiring and gut wrenching win against the Winona State Warriors in Winona, MN. Fighting against hostile crowds and a physical WSU opponent the Wolves pulled off a 62-47 win in the final regular season game of the 2003-2004 season.

For the Wolves the whole game was a good new/bad news event. The bad news for the Wolves offensively was that they were only able to score 60 points. The good news was that they were able to step up on defense and hold Winona to just 47 points. The bad news was that the Wolves struggled shooting from the field. The good news, their pressure defense stiffled Winona's shooters and WSU shot just 28.8 percent from the field.

Northern had just two players in double figures. Junior Dustin Hjelmeland led the way with 13 points while Sophomore Adam Grant threw in 12 points of his own. NSU outrebounded WSU by a slant of 38-32 with Sophomre Matt Hammer grabbing nine and fellow Soph Grant adding eight rebounds to his 12 points.

The Warriors were led by post player Travis Leetch. Leetch scored 17 points and was Winona's only player in double figures.

With the win, the Wolves move to 21-6 overall and 13-3 in NSIC action. The Wolves finish with the highest regulars season record since Coach Don Meyer has been at Northern State University. Now the Wolves return home for a their first round playoff game on Wednesday, March 3. Tip off time is 8:00 pm following the women's first-round ballgame at 6:00 pm.

Game Stats