CALDWELL--NNU kept it close but just couldn't get over against the Yotes.

The College of Idaho got 23 points from Kelvin Potts and ten points from newcomer Matt Ballenger to win 79-72 over the Crusaders. The annual rivalry again didn't disappoint a capacity crowd in Caldwell that saw both teams trade baskets and fans trade insults.

The tip off classic is a two game series this year with a game scheduled at NNU on December 8th. The C of I win counts in the NAIA, but is listed as an exhibition game for NNU in NCAA Division II.