Valparaiso Vs. Cleveland State Final Score: Vikings Can't Catch Up With Crusaders, Lose 59-41

Read More: Ryan Broekhoff (G - Valparaiso), Richie Edwards (F - Valparaiso), Cleveland St. Vikings, Valparaiso Crusaders

The Valparaiso Crusaders (18-8, 11-3) posted an impressive road win on Thursday night, beating the Cleveland State Vikings 59-41 to take over the top spot in the Horizon League.

The Vikings (20-5, 10-3) took a step back in the Horizon League, unable to respond to a big with their closest challenger for a league title on their home court. Team leader D'Aundray Brown tried to play through a groin injury but was limited to just eight minutes of play, but Brown's absence was only part of the problem.

Cleveland State couldn't get their offense on track all night. Forced to play from behind, the Vikings couldn't make the shots to mount a rally, as they finished the game shooting just 26% from the field including making just one of 13 three-point attempts.

Valpo's Ryan Broekhoff made six of nine three-pointers himself, leading the Crusaders with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Richie Edwards came off the bench to score 20 points for Valpo.

Jeremey Montgomery led the Vikings with 15 points, but needed to take 17 shots to score his points.

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