UND-NDSU preview

*Well, here we go! In probably the biggest game EVER between the men's basketball teams of North Dakota and North Dakota State, we are set to see a dandy. Sure, these two have had some big games in the past but nothing can compare to this one. Why? Both programs are now DI...BOTH have a realistic shot at making "The Dance"
*The atmosphere will be fantastic tonight at the Betty..It might not register as the biggest crowd to ever see a game in the gym but it will be sold out and it will be the LOUDEST the building has ever reached.
*Bison fans will chant, "Let's play football." UND fans will chant, "Let's play hockey." How about we just play basketball.
*UND is coming off a strong showing against nationally-ranked Wisconsin and NDSU snapped a two-game skid when they knocked off Western Michigan. Both teams have momentum going into the matchup.
*I think this game goes down to the wire and with the new rule everyone at the coffee shop has been chatting about, this game could come down to free throws.
*We know UND has the guards..we know NDSU has the posts...and we know both teams are veteran.
*UND is going to try and attack off the dribble. If they can get Braun and Bjorklund in foul trouble early, that helps the green and white. Same goes for NDSU. If Braun and Bjorklund can get UND's big men in trouble, the Bison will see success.
*That being said, how are the refs going to call the game? Due to it being a heated rivalry, will we see a lot of fouls? I hope not. As Coach Boone said in 'Remember The Titans', "Let 'Em Play."
*Troy Huff was absolutely sensational in his return to Wisconsin. Sometimes after a great shooting performance like that, we see the player struggle the next game. If Huff is shooting like he did at the Kohl Center, it might be a long night for the Bison defense.
*Braun and Bjorklund might combine for 50 points tonight. If UND can keep them around 35-40 combined, they have a good shot.
*Game will come down to who shoots better from the line and what players get in foul trouble.
*My prediction: UND-69 NDSU-66 in a thriller.
*See you at the Betty!