GREELEY, Colo. (Interstat) — The Northern Colorado Bears, off to one of their best starts in program history, will host the South Dakota Coyotes in a nonconference men’s basketball game on Saturday at Butler-Hancock Athletic Center. Northern Colorado (8-1) has won three straight, most recently a 75-70 road victory at Omaha on Wednesday. Quinn Denker led the way with 22 points and eight assists, while Brock Wisne added 20 points. The Bears’ only loss came by a single point at Saint Thomas (Minn.) last month. South Dakota (5-4) looks to rebound after a 77-71 home loss to Portland State on Wednesday. Isaac Bruns scored 28 points in the defeat, with Cameron Fens adding 15 points and two blocks. The Coyotes are 4-1 at home but 1-3 in road and neutral-site games this season. The matchup features a contrast in momentum. The Bears have showcased a balanced attack and resilience, with three overtime wins already. The Coyotes have been potent offensively at times but are seeking consistency, especially away from home. Saturday’s game is the final nonconference tune-up for Northern Colorado before a Dec. 16 trip to Texas Tech. South Dakota continues a road swing at Wyoming on Tuesday.