Titans Surge Late to Earn Conference-Opening Win Over RedHawks
SOUTH BEND — IU South Bend opened Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference play on Wednesday night, using a late second-half push to defeat Indiana Northwest 87-78 inside the Student Activities Center.
The Titans (2-3, 1-0 CCAC) found themselves in a back-and-forth battle that featured 14 ties and 15 lead changes. After trailing 73-72 with just over four minutes remaining, IU South Bend erupted with a 15-5 closing run, fueled by defensive stops, rebounding, and a dominant night from Kyle Olagbegi.
IUSB took the lead back with 3:18 on the clock with a layup from Olagbegi. A steal from Chris Hurt set up the next score, giving way for a transition bucket from Ethan Hill. The visitors responded with a two-point shot to bring the Titan lead to 76-75 but Olagbegi struck again with a three-pointer to give the team some breathing room. The defense got the job done down the stretch to secure the 87-78 finish.
Making the first start of his career, Olagbegi delivered another breakout performance, posting a career-best 28 points on 11-of-16 shooting while adding nine rebounds, two blocks, and a steal. The junior scored eight points in the final minutes, including a key three-pointer and free throws that sealed the win.
The Titans had four players in double figures. Ethan Hill continued his strong stretch with 15 points and six rebounds. CJ Hornbeak added 14 points, knocking down a pair of threes, while AJ Dunn came off the bench to provide a major spark with 15 points on 6-of-10 shooting.
IU South Bend dominated the interior, outscoring the RedHawks 48-28 in the paint, and controlled the glass with a 40-34 rebounding advantage. The Titans’ second unit played a major role, outscoring IUN’s bench 38-5. They also converted 16 RedHawk turnovers into 22 points, a major swing in a close contest.
The Titans shot 50.7 percent from the field on Wednesday night, converting consistently near the hoop.
IU South Bend hits the road for more conference play on Saturday, battling Governors State at 4:00 pm.