No. 25 NPCC Knights Knock Off Seward County

The No. 25 North Platte Community College men’s basketball team (3-0) emerged victorious on Friday afternoon over the Seward County Saints (1-2) as they held on to win in the final minute 57-54.

The Knights held a two point lead with 25 seconds remaining in the game with Seward County’s ball. The Knights played a zone as they had most of the game holding the Saints to long jump shot that led to a long rebound. The ball was loose on the floor and Tim Simmons dove on the floor to secure a jump ball which gave the Knights possession. Simmons was fouled on the inbounds and immediately fouled with six seconds remaining. Simmons went one of two as the Knights survived a long 3-point shot to win the game.

The game started slowly as both struggled to find a rhythm offensively as 24 fouls were called on each team. The Knights were able to take a 27-21 into the locker room. The Knights started the second half strong as they were able to take the largest lead of the game at 10 points early in the second half. The Saints were able to chip away before taking a one point lead late in the game before the Knights would respond to take the lead and hold on in the end.

The Knights were led by 17 points from Ethan Montalvo as the only player in double figures. Jake Maslo was second for the Knights with nine points and 10 rebounds. Cameron Williams finished with eight points for the Knights. Kevin Smith led the Saints with 12 points.

North Platte continues the Garden City Classic tomorrow when they take on the Garden City Community College Bronc Busters at7:30 p.m. The Bronc Busters are 2-0 this season after defeating Sunrise Christian Prep 51-48 and Lamar Community College JV 99-52. Garden City plays Kingdom Prep Friday night before facing the Knights on Saturday. Jade Cathey leads the Bronc Busters with 15.5 ppg and Talan Whitaker is second with 11.5 ppg.

The Knights begin a five game home stand on Tuesday Nov. 12 as they take on the York College JV at 7 p.m. before hosting Midland University JV and Doane College JV on Nov. 15 and 16.