After starting off conference play with a tough loss at Buena Vista, the Storm men’s basketball team were looking to turn it around quickly.

Early in the first Luther was able to get off to a fast start while the Storm seemed to struggle from the field.

The Norse started off strong with a 16-4 run early in the first half., ultimately defeating the Storm 59-53.

The Storm struggled from the field early, but were able to fight back before halftime. They were plagued with turnovers throughout the night with 12 coming in the first half alone. They finished the night with 20 altogether. Simpson went on a 10-3 run to end the half and was able to make it a three-point game heading into the half.

Rebounding hindered the Storm throughout the night, especially late. They were outscored 13-2 on second chance points.

Simpson was able to tie the game at 47 a piece with five minutes remaining in second half.

They suffered on the offensive and defensive end in regards to rebounding throughout the night, but it especially hurt them late. Luther was able to gain second chance points and steal the game late thanks to a 9-0 run that spanned for nearly four minutes.

Charles Swain was the leading scorer for Simpson with 11. The sophomore was 4-for-12 from the field, as well as 1-3 from behind the three-point line.

Senior Elijah Knox along with sophomore Austin Hennings both finished with 10. Senior forward, Olu Rotibi finished the night with nine and was a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line.

The Storm will open their conference home opener this Saturday, January 12 against conference foe Wartburg. (7-5, 2-0). The Storm are looking to grab their first conference win of the season, and are also looking for help for the fans to show their support.