The 18th ranked NCMC men's basketball team opened Region 16 play with a resounding 114-68 victory over Metropolitan Community College. The Pirates hot shooting on the road pushed their overall record to 13-4 with their next test coming at home on Tuesday against Graceland University JV. Tipoff is set for 7:00pm on the 23rd.
The starting lineup for NCMC played a pivotal role in the team's success. Isaiah Reams had a stellar outing, leading all scorers with an impressive 26 points, while Tyler King and Giovanni Mack added 15 and 16 points, respectively.
Khalil Screen also made a significant contribution off the bench, netting 10 points. Also in a reserve role, Jon Carroll continued to be an interior force scoring 13 points and pulling down 6 rebounds. Jamaal Davis pulled down 9 rebounds of his own to lead the team.
Defensively, NCMC displayed intensity, recording 10 steals and 9 blocks. The team's ability to disrupt Metropolitan's offense and convert turnovers into scoring opportunities was a key factor in the lopsided victory.
The Pirates shot the ball well in all facets on Saturday. They were a robust 54.3% from the field and knocked in 34 for 47 from the charity stripe.
North Central Missouri's efficient shooting, dominance on the boards, and defensive prowess were the defining elements of their commanding road victory, highlighting the team's cohesion and skill on both ends of the floor.