The North Platte Community College Knights defeated Region IX opponent Western Nebraska Community College 88-86 at McDonald-Belton Gymnasium Friday night.
The Knights trailed in the first half with 10:13 to play 22-20. North Platte went on a 21-7 run to take a 41-29 lead with 44 seconds left in the first half and led at half time 41-34.
In the second half the Cougars clawed back and took the lead on a field goal by Diante Mitchell to lead 58-57.
The Knights took the lead back on a layup by Cameron Williams. Williams went on to score the next 15 points for the Knights to take the lead 71-68 with 6:08 left to play.
Marco Pascolo, who had been held scoreless until that time, hit a 3 pointer to put the Knights up 74-70.
The game was tied at 86 when Cameron Williams was fouled and went to the free throw line to put the game to its final score. 88-86.
Western Nebraska took the ball in and tried to throw the length of the court and Pascolo intercepted it.
Williams led the Knights in scoring with 36 points. Williams has scored 30 or more points in five of the last six games and is in 33rd place on the Knights all-time scoring list with 798 career points.
Other Knights to score in double figures were Shyquinn Dix with 12 points and Pascolo with 10 points. Tyree Peter led the Knights in rebounding with six rebounds
The Cougars had four players in double figures led by Mitchell with 23 points. Tyler Crosbie was next in scoring with 19 points, followed closely by Damion Rashford with 17. Preston Christensen ended the game with 11 points for the Cougars.
Julion Guity led the Cougars with six rebounds and added five blocked shots.
The Knights improve to 11-4 overall and 4-1 in the south sub-region of Region IX. Western Nebraska falls to 6-10 overall and 2-2 in sub-region play.
The Knights host Eastern Wyoming College on Saturday. Saturday’s game has been designated as Boy Scout Night. All Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Explorers are encouraged to attend.
The game will be livestreamed on www.coachesaid.com. Game time is 4:00 p.m. CST.