CINCINNATI — Coming off two highs, the Xavier Musketeers apparently let their No. 23 ranking and impressive win at Michigan goes to their heads Monday night.
Playing as a ranked team for the first time in four years, Xavier was pressed before pulling away to a 78-66 victory over Northern Kentucky.
The Musketeers (4-0) jumped into the Top 25 with lopsided wins over Missouri and Michigan. Xavier gave up open 3-point shots in the first half, allowing the Norse to keep it close.They used their balance to shake free of the Norse (1-3) in the second half.
Six Musketeers reached double figures. Xavier's Trevon Bluiett had 14 points and a career-high 16 rebounds for his second career double-double. Forward James Farr had 13 points and eight rebounds.
Tyler White scored a career-high 25 points for Northern Kentucky.
The Musketeers host Alabama at noon on Thanksgiving Day.
