On the surface this was just another NIU loss, but the halftime score was 26-5.
The first half saw NIU go 2-for-19 from the field, 1-for-6 on free throws, commit 12 turnovers and 11 fouls, and somehow the rebounding margin 11-7, including six offensive. Akeem Springs hit a jumper on their first possession, then waited 16 minutes for their next point, a Travon Baker free throw, and Baker followed it up with a steal and jumper immediately following that.
After all that, Dayton admittedly had the game won, but NIU still won the half 38-34. Baker scored 14 more points in the second half to lead all players with 17 points. He also had four steals.
So, at least they finished well. NIU is now at 1-5 and plays Southern Illinois-Edwardsville on Wednesday.