HOUGHTON, Mich. — Michigan Tech grinded out a 54-48 men's basketball victory over Northwood tonight at the SDC Gym despite less than 30 percent field goal shooting. The Huskies improved to 5-4 overall and 2-2 in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

In summary from head coach Kevin Luke: "That may have been the ugliest win I've been associated with in all my time at Michigan Tech."

The point totals through 30 minutes of play (Michigan Tech 34, Northwood 30) were reminiscent more of a GLIAC football game this year. The Huskies' football squad eclipsed the 30-point mark six times this past fall.

The halftime stat sheet was virtually identical for the two teams. Both had 25 percent (7-of-28) field goal shooting, 22 rebounds, six turnovers and three assists.

The start to the second half proved to be pivotal for Michigan Tech as it used an 11-2 spurt through the first eight minutes of the half to open of a 32-23 margin. A big 3-pointer from freshman Mike Hojnacki and a dunk from Fedrick Bowe sparked the run.

Tech didn't make a field goal for the final 4:52, but held on to the lead with free throws. Northwood battled back to within 49-46 with 1:17 to play after a steal and lay-in by Antonio Harrison. That was the last field goal for the visitors. Even though the Huskies committed another turnover and connected on just three of their next six free throws, the Timberwolves were unable to come any closer.

"As ugly as it was, our defense was really solid," said Luke. "The shooting wasn't there, but defense and second half free throws pulled us through."

Michigan Tech cashed in on 21-of-27 (77.8 percent) of its foul shots on the night for a plus-12 over NU in that category. The Black and Gold also won the rebounding war 41-37.

Robby Springborn led all players in scoring with 20 points including an impressive 12-of-13 night from the foul line. Bowe added a double-double with 11 points and a game-high 13 rebounds to go with three blocked shots.

Northwood (5-3, 2-2 GLIAC) was paced by Chris Johnson's 18 points. His 7-of-13 shooting night helped the T'wolves finish at 32.7 percent from the floor.

Michigan Tech will remain at home for a GLIAC rematch with Wayne State Saturday (Dec. 20) at 3 p.m. The Huskies will be looking to avenge a 62-55 loss at WSU two weeks ago (Dec. 4).