Northwestern State gets by Missouri Valley 87-76

NATCHITOCHES, La. (AP) Zeek Woodley nailed 3 of 4 from long range and totaled 25 points as Northwestern State held on for an 87-76 victory over NAIA's Missouri Valley on Saturday.

Northwestern State jumped out to a 27-9 lead midway through the first half and led 51-32 at the break. The Vikings gradually closed the gap to 82-68 with 6:20 remaining. Brad Hamilton nailed a 3-pointer, Raviel Burton followed with a layup and a free throw and James Lane drove for a layup to trail 84-76 with 2:32 left in the game.

Jalan West made a free throw and Woodley slammed home a dunk to secure the win for Northwestern State (3-3).

Marvin Frazier finished with 14 points, Ta'Jon Welcome had 12 and West added 11 with 14 assists for the Demons.

Lane had 25 points and 16 rebounds for the Vikings.