Pirate's basketball, newly ranked at #20 in the latest NJCAA DII poll, topped Highland CC on the road Wednesday night by the final score of 74-66.  The win improves the team's record to 9-4 with a Saturday home game with Allen County CC next on the schedule.

That game, dubbed the Ugly Sweater/Toy Toss Game, is a combined effort from Wright Memorial Physicians' Group, Saint Luke's Mercer County Clinic and the NCMC Athletic Department to benefit children in Grundy and Mercer counties. The event will benefit children ages 2-17 years old. Donated toys from fans taken to the Department of Social Services Children's Division and Trenton Kiwanis Club for distribution in the community.

Tyler King emerged as the standout performer against Highland, leading the scoring with an impressive game high 33 points. King's stellar performance was marked by his 14-of-19 shooting from the field, contributing significantly to his team's victory. Isaiah Reams also played a crucial role, adding 14 points to the scoreboard while showcasing efficient shooting with a 6-of-10 performance.

NCMC displayed a strong defensive effort, grabbing 37 rebounds as a team and limiting their opponents' shooting efficiency to 38.2% from the field. They also forced 19 Highland turnovers.  Giovanni Mack contributed on both ends of the floor, tallying 6 rebounds and 5 points, while Joe Clark and Jon Carroll added 10 and 7 points, respectively, in securing the victory.

On the opposing side, Highland CC put up a tough fight with notable performances from Chris Flippin, who secured a double-double with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Josh Owens contributed 19 points, but it wasn't enough to overturn the Pirate's lead.