FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (November 15, 2019) – The Northern Arizona University men's basketball saw a total of four players register double-figure points as it rolled to a 105-32 victory over SAGU American Indian College on Friday night in its home opener at the Rolle Activity Center.
The Lumberjacks (1-1) controlled the game from the opening tip as they limited the Warriors to just nine points in the initial 20 minutes – breaking the previous school record for fewest points allowed in a half of 10 - which was set 43 years ago during the 1975-76 campaign against Idaho State.
NAU rang up 68 on its end in the first half – which also set a new standard for the most points ever scored by the 'Jacks in a half, eclipsing the 63 posted against Adams State (Colo.) in 1984-85.
In addition, the 73-point margin of victory shattered the previous high water mark for the program of 55 set against Western New Mexico in 1968-69. The 105-point total marked the most for NAU since notching 113 vs. Southwestern College (Calif.) in 2009-10.
The Lumberjacks finished the contest with 17 makes from three-point range – their highest single-game connections from deep in nearly two decades.
The game also marked the first-ever collegiate victory for Lumberjacks' head coach
Shane Burcar.
NAU wasted no time in setting the tone for the night as it raced out to a 28-4 lead over the first 6:30 minutes of action. Seven of the Lumberjacks first eight makes from the field came from distance during the stretch – including five by sophomore sharpshooter
Luke Avdalovic, who finished with a career and game-high 24 points on 8-of-13 connections from deep.
The dominance continued in the second half as the Lumberjacks held SAGU AIC scoreless for the opening 6:46 during a 12-0 run and went on to outscore the Warriors 41-23 in the final 20 minutes.
Joining Avdalovic in double-digits for the 'Jacks was sophomore
Cameron Shelton, who finished just two assists shy of a triple-double with 13 points, 10 rebounds and eight helpers.
Nik Mains tabbed the first double-double of his career with 13 points and 12 rebounds. Freshman
Ajang Aguek registered 12 points in his first collegiate action.
Senior
Brooks DeBisschop added 10 boards and eight points in the win.
The Lumberjacks will continue their current homestand on Wednesday, Nov. 20 in a 6 p.m. MST tip vs. Benedictine Mesa at the Rolle Activity Center.
NAU men's basketball ticket packages are currently on sale for the 2019-20 season.
Fans can purchase tickets online at nauathletics.com/tickets or by calling the Lumberjack Ticket Office at 928-523-0639.
