DECORAH, Iowa - The Luther men's basketball team lost to the University of Dubuque 71-47. The lead changed hands five times in the opening frame. At 7:35 the Spartans led 20-15 and went on a 14-5 run to take the lead into the break (34-20). In the second half, the Norse tired to cut into the lead getting as close as seven points twice with a jump shot from Henry Kreckman (47-54) with 6:16 remaining. Of the six baskets made by Dubuque in the final minutes five were three pointers as they secured the win.

The Spartans shot 41.8 percent from the floor and 47.6 percent beyond the arc. Their leading scorer was Grady Thompson with 19 points and seven rebounds. Dubuque is now 11-6 overall and 4-4 in the American Rivers Conference.

Kreckman posted a double-double for the second straight game with 13 points and 13 rebounds. Owen Poloronis set a new season high with 11 points. Andre Palavra recorded eight points. 

Luther falls to 6-11 overall and 1-7 in conference action. 

The Norse are on the road for their next game at Nebraska Wesleyan on Saturday, Jan. 24. Tip-off is at 4 p.m. in Lincoln, Neb.