OWENSBORO, Ky. - Leslie Malone scored 15 points and blocked three shots to lead Northern Kentucky University to a 72-60 win against Kentucky Wesleyan on Sunday in the Owensboro Sportscenter.
Scott Bibbins and Dennis Gagai each added 12 points for NKU, which is ranked 17th nationally in the NCAA Division II poll. Dustin Maguire scored 10 points as the Norse (9-3 overall, 2-1 Great Lakes Valley Conference) knocked off No. 11 Kentucky Wesleyan for the 10th consecutive time.
NKU head coach Dave Bezold is now 10-0 all-time against Kentucky Wesleyan. The Panthers have not defeated the Norse since Feb. 28, 2004.
NKU jumped out to a 20-9 lead 10 minutes into the game. The Norse led by as many as 17 points (36-19) in the first half before setting for a 36-26 edge at the break.
Kentucky Wesleyan (9-2, 2-2 GLVC) chopped NKU's lead to 45-40 with 13:27 left, but DeAaron Williams responded with two consecutive baskets. Malone followed with a jumper to give NKU a 51-41 advantage.
Williams finished with eight points for NKU, while Billy Finnell added six points and five assists. NKU plays at No. 18 Southern Indiana on Thursday night in Evansville, Ind.
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