Event Preview
Overview
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, the Northern Colorado Bears will host the South Dakota Coyotes in a men's basketball matchup at the Bank of Colorado Arena in Greeley, Colorado. This game is part of the Big Sky–Summit League Challenge, a series designed to foster competition between teams from the Big Sky and Summit Leagues. The contest is set to tip off at 6:00 PM MST. (uncbears.com)
Season Snapshot
Northern Colorado Bears
The Bears have had a strong start to the 2025–26 season, boasting an 8-1 record. Their most recent victory was a 75-70 road win against the Omaha Mavericks, where guard Quinn Denker led the team with 22 points, eight assists, three steals, and three rebounds. Northern Colorado has demonstrated offensive prowess, averaging 89.6 points per game, and ranks first in the Big Sky Conference. (wtop.com)
South Dakota Coyotes
The Coyotes enter this game with a 5-4 record. In their latest outing, they secured a neutral-site win over Air Force with an 80-63 scoreline. South Dakota has been known for its high-scoring offense, averaging 92.0 points per game, placing them sixth in the Summit League. (uncbears.com)
Recent Form
Northern Colorado Bears
The Bears have been on a solid run, winning 12 of their last 13 games at the Bank of Colorado Arena against non-AP-ranked opponents. Their home-court advantage has been significant, and they will look to extend this strong performance against the Coyotes. (pickdawgz.com)
South Dakota Coyotes
The Coyotes have faced challenges on the road, losing each of their last four away games against Big Sky Conference teams. Their performance away from home has been a concern, and they will aim to improve in this matchup. (pickdawgz.com)
Talking Points
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Offensive Firepower: Both teams are known for their high-scoring offenses, with Northern Colorado averaging 89.6 points per game and South Dakota 92.0. Which team will impose its offensive will?
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Home-Court Advantage: Northern Colorado has a strong home record, winning 12 of their last 13 games at the Bank of Colorado Arena against non-AP-ranked opponents. Can the Coyotes overcome this challenge?
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Road Performance: South Dakota has struggled on the road, losing their last four away games against Big Sky teams. Will they turn the tide in this matchup?
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Key Players: Quinn Denker of Northern Colorado and Isaac Bruns of South Dakota are leading their respective teams in scoring. How will these players impact the game's outcome?
Players to Watch
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Quinn Denker (Northern Colorado): A dynamic guard averaging 18.7 points per game, Denker has been instrumental in the Bears' offensive success. (wtop.com)
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Isaac Bruns (South Dakota): Leading the Coyotes with 18.6 points per game, Bruns is a key offensive threat for South Dakota. (uncbears.com)
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Zack Bloch (Northern Colorado): A sharpshooter, Bloch is shooting 52.5% from beyond the arc, averaging 13.4 points and 1.7 steals per game. (wtop.com)
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Cameron Fens (South Dakota): Providing physicality in the paint, Fens averages 9.9 points and a team-best 5.4 rebounds per game. (uncbears.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
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Offensive Efficiency vs. Defensive Resilience: Northern Colorado's high-scoring offense faces South Dakota's defense, which allows 79.2 points per game. Can the Coyotes tighten up defensively?
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Home-Court Advantage: Northern Colorado's strong home record will be tested against a South Dakota team eager to improve its road performance.
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Three-Point Shooting: With Northern Colorado's Zack Bloch shooting 52.5% from beyond the arc, the Coyotes' perimeter defense will be crucial.
Fun Facts
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Series History: South Dakota leads the all-time series 31-20, but Northern Colorado has won the last three matchups, including a 74-69 victory in December 2021. (uncbears.com)
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High-Scoring Teams: Both teams are among the highest-scoring in their respective conferences, with Northern Colorado averaging 89.6 points per game and South Dakota 92.0.
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Home-Court Dominance: Northern Colorado has won 12 of their last 13 games at the Bank of Colorado Arena against non-AP-ranked opponents. (pickdawgz.com)
Things to Chirp About
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"Can Northern Colorado's home dominance continue against the Coyotes?"
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"Will South Dakota's offense overpower the Bears' defense?"
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"Is Quinn Denker the key to a Bears victory tonight?"
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"How will Isaac Bruns perform under the pressure of a road game?"
Prediction
While both teams possess potent offenses, Northern Colorado's strong home-court advantage and recent form suggest they may have the upper hand in this matchup. However, South Dakota's high-scoring capabilities mean they cannot be underestimated. The game is expected to be competitive, with Northern Colorado slightly favored to secure the win.