The Green Bay Phoenix men's and women's basketball teams started off their weekend slates on high notes Thursday night.

On the men's side, the Phoenix started strong and ended even better in its 82-65 win over Cleveland State on the road. The team shot above 53 percent as a team, led by Sandy Cohen's 18 points. The Phoenix also turned in an impressive defensive performance, keeping the Vikings scoreless for over the final five minutes of the game. Its next game is Saturday at Youngstown State.

The march towards first place continued at the Kress Center where the Phoenix women beat Northern Kentucky 70-42. In her second game back from injury, Frankie Wurtz led the Phoenix with 13 points. The Phoenix were menacing on defense forcing 23 turnovers, including 14 steals. Its next game is Saturday against current Horizon League leader Wright State.