Dubuque DBQ 10-4,3-2 American Rivers

Neb. Wesleyan NWU 10-5,5-1 American Rivers

Dubuque DBQ

10-4,3-2 American Rivers

Final

Jan. 10, 2026

Neb. Wesleyan NWU

10-5,5-1 American Rivers

Score By Periods
Team	1	2	F
Dubuque DBQ	37	41	78
Neb. Wesleyan NWU	42	32	74

Summary
Box Score

Game Recap: Men's Basketball | 1/10/2026 6:53:00 PM

Prairie Wolves Rally Late but Fall Short in 78-74 Home Setback to Dubuque

LINCOLN, Neb. - Nebraska Wesleyan University men's basketball went punch for punch Saturday night inside Snyder Arena, but a late Dubuque surge and steady execution at the line down the stretch handed the Prairie Wolves a 78-74 American Rivers Conference loss in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The Prairie Wolves erased multiple deficits and had the ball with a chance to tie or take the lead in the final minute, but Dubuque made just enough plays to escape with the four-point win. Nebraska Wesleyan showed balance offensively and grit defensively, yet could not fully overcome key second-half runs by the Spartans.

Nebraska Wesleyan slips to 10-5 overall and (5-1 A-R-C), while Dubuque improves to (10-4) and (3-2 A-R-C).

How It Happened

First Half
The opening minutes featured a fast tempo and physical play as both teams tested each other inside. Nebraska Wesleyan answered every early Dubuque basket, using ball movement and aggressive drives to stay even through the first media timeout.

Midway through the half, Dubuque created separation with a short run fueled by second-chance points and transition opportunities, pushing the lead to eight with 7:58 seconds remaining. The Prairie Wolves steadied themselves behind strong guard play and timely perimeter shooting, trimming the margin back to one possession.

Seth Newton Nebraska Wesleyan closed the half with momentum, converting late at the rim and from deep to take a 42-37 advantage into the break despite Dubuque holding dominating the rebounding battle.

Second Half
Nebraska Wesleyan opened the second half with purpose with a quick bucket from Nick Howard to open the half.

The Spartans continued to apply pressure, cutting the deficit to one possession multiple times as the crowd got into the game. With just over five minutes remaining, Amun-Ra Collins backdoor cut and got fouled on his layup to bring it within one.

Down the stretch, the Spartans were efficient at the line, while Nebraska Wesleyan continued to battle for quality looks. The Prairie Wolves had opportunities late, but Dubuque's composure in the final minute sealed the 78-74 decision.