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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Griz Down Frigid Nanooks

Associated Press

Montana relied on its tight defense and Alaska-Fairbanks’ poor shooting for a 65-54 win Saturday in the Top of the World Classic.

The Nanooks (4-2) were as cold as the minus-15 degree reading outside the Carlson Center, hitting just 17 of 59 from the field. The Grizzlies (1-1) didn’t burn up the nets either, but took advantage of UAF’s 19 turnovers and managed to shoot 45 percent from the field.

Ryan Dick led Montana with 17 points, and Mike Warhank added 13. Dick pulled down a game-high 12 rebounds.

For tournament host UAF, Rod Jones scored 16. Ramon Alliman contributed 11 points, and Jones, Alliman and Sean Wysock each grabbed six rebounds.

The Nanooks threatened once late in the game, when they closed to 57-51 after several Grizzly turnovers. Montana led from the start and never relinquished the advantage. Twice the Grizzlies widened the gap to 13 points.

Montana took a 31-21 lead into the locker room at halftime.