Event Preview
Overview
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, the Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons will host the Northern Kentucky Norse in a Horizon League men's basketball matchup at the Gates Sports Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 PM Eastern Time. This game marks the conference opener for both teams, making it a crucial early-season contest that could set the tone for their Horizon League campaigns. (gomastodons.com)
Season Snapshot
Northern Kentucky Norse
The Norse enter the game with a 7-2 record, including a 1-0 mark in Horizon League play. They have demonstrated strong offensive capabilities, averaging 86.7 points per game, and have been effective in ball distribution with 16.7 assists per game. Defensively, they allow 75.2 points per game. (foxsports.com)
Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons
The Mastodons have a 4-6 overall record and are 0-1 in the Horizon League. Offensively, they average 80.4 points per game, slightly higher than their opponents, but defensively, they concede 80.4 points per game, indicating challenges in stopping opposing offenses. (foxsports.com)
Recent Form
Northern Kentucky Norse
The Norse have been on a strong run, winning five consecutive games leading up to this matchup. Their recent performances suggest a team in good form, with a balanced offensive and defensive approach. (oddscrowd.com)
Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons
The Mastodons have struggled recently, losing four of their last five games. Their most recent game was a loss, contributing to their current losing streak. (oddscrowd.com)
Talking Points
-
Offensive Firepower: Northern Kentucky's high-scoring offense faces off against Purdue Fort Wayne's potent attack. Which team will impose its offensive will?
-
Defensive Challenges: Both teams have shown vulnerabilities on defense. How will each team address these issues to secure a win?
-
Momentum Shift: Northern Kentucky enters with a five-game winning streak, while Purdue Fort Wayne is on a four-game losing streak. Can the Mastodons turn their fortunes around at home?
-
Conference Implications: As the Horizon League opener for both teams, this game could have significant implications for conference standings.
Players to Watch
-
Dan Gherezgher (Northern Kentucky): Leading the Norse with 17.3 points per game, Gherezgher is a key offensive weapon. (foxsports.com)
-
Corey Hadnot II (Purdue Fort Wayne): Averaging 19.4 points per game, Hadnot II is the Mastodons' primary scoring threat. (foxsports.com)
-
LJ Wells (Northern Kentucky): Contributing 7.5 rebounds per game, Wells is crucial for the Norse's rebounding efforts. (foxsports.com)
-
Darius Duffy (Purdue Fort Wayne): Averaging 5.4 assists per game, Duffy plays a pivotal role in facilitating the Mastodons' offense. (foxsports.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
-
Offensive Efficiency vs. Defensive Struggles: Northern Kentucky's high-scoring offense will test Purdue Fort Wayne's defense, which has been porous this season. (foxsports.com)
-
Home Court Advantage: Purdue Fort Wayne will look to leverage the support of their home crowd to snap their losing streak.
Fun Facts
-
Conference Opener: This game serves as the Horizon League opener for both teams, adding extra significance to the matchup.
-
High-Scoring Teams: Both teams have shown the ability to score in bunches, setting the stage for a potentially high-scoring affair.
-
Recent Streaks: Northern Kentucky enters with a five-game winning streak, while Purdue Fort Wayne is on a four-game losing streak.
Things to Chirp About
-
"Can the Mastodons turn their season around with a win over the Norse?"
-
"Will Northern Kentucky's offense continue its high-scoring ways against Purdue Fort Wayne?"
-
"How will the home crowd impact the Mastodons' performance?"
-
"Which team will establish dominance in the Horizon League early in the season?"
Prediction
While both teams have potent offenses, Northern Kentucky's recent form and offensive efficiency give them a slight edge in this matchup. However, playing at home could provide Purdue Fort Wayne with the boost they need to challenge the Norse. Expect a competitive game with Northern Kentucky potentially edging out a victory.