CALDWELL, Idaho — The College of Idaho showed Northwest Nazarene it means business this season, racing out to an early lead and never letting up in front of a raucous crowd of 1,752 fans at J.A. Albertson Activities Center. The Yotes controlled both ends of the floor to take Game 1 of the Mayor's Cup series, 75–64, behind a balanced attack and several momentum-swinging plays.
The Yotes shot 45 percent from the field and 42 percent from three, setting the tone from the opening minutes. Alex Germer led the way with 15 points on 5-of-8 shooting, including three triples, while freshman Conner Sheets made an instant impact off the bench, adding 14 points and going a perfect 5-for-5 from the line. Dougie Peoples scored 11 points and pulled down six rebounds, and Utrillo Morris turned in another steady performance with 13 points, five assists, and three steals.
One of the loudest moments of the night came when Jackson Rogers threw down a second-half dunk that electrified the student section and brought back memories of his uncle, Yote alum Straton Rogers, known for his own high-flying finishes during his College of Idaho career.
C of I's depth again proved to be the difference, as the Yote bench outscored NNU's reserves 38–9 while forcing 11 turnovers and holding the Nighthawks to 37 percent shooting.
Jaden Byers led NNU with 17 points and 10 rebounds, and Briggs Ranstrom added 12 points and 10 boards.
With the win, the Yotes move to 3–2 on the season. The two rivals will square off again in Game 2 of the Mayor's Cup next Tuesday, November 18, in Nampa.
