Great Lakes Wire

Northern Michigan University's men's basketball team is set to face Upper Iowa in a highly anticipated matchup at Wisconsin Dells on December 14. The Wildcats, boasting a 6-2 record, are on a three-game winning streak and have been undefeated at the Justagame Fieldhouse. Their opponents, the Peacocks, hold a 7-2 record and remain unbeaten on neutral grounds.

The encounter is significant as both teams rank in the top ten of the Midwest Regional Poll, with Northern Michigan positioned sixth and Upper Iowa seventh. The game will be broadcasted on 100.3 The Point with Casey Ford providing commentary.

Head coach Matt Majkrzak commented on Upper Iowa's strategy: "Upper Iowa has four of five starters back from last season. They're coming at you by crashing five to the glass, pressing every possession, and launching threes."

Northern Michigan recently commenced their GLIAC play with victories over Purdue Northwest and Parkside. Gerald Gittens Jr., who played crucial roles in these wins, averaged impressive statistics over the weekend games.

Dylan Kuehl leads NMU this season with an average of 15 points per game. He recently joined an exclusive group of players surpassing 1,000 career points for Northern Michigan.

Coach Majkrzak aims to guide his team to a third consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance following successful seasons that saw them win conference titles and achieve historic victories.

The Wildcats' roster includes several new transfers and freshmen who are expected to contribute significantly alongside returning players like Brian Parzych and Dylan Kuehl.

Upper Iowa comes into this game ranked ninth nationally in rebounds per game. They rely heavily on their leading scorers Noah King and Nick Reid for offensive production.

Last season's meeting between these teams saw Northern Michigan emerge victorious by a scoreline of 85-75 thanks largely due to Kuehl’s performance.