The Western Nebraska Community College men's basketball team opened the season on a bright spot, outscoring Planet Academy 46-36 in the second half to capture the 90-81 win Thursday evening at Cougar Palace.
WNCC coach Russ Beck said he thought the men did a good job on the court.
"We came out with some first game jitters but once we found a groove, the guys really started making plays off of each other," he said. "Key stat for the Cougars was 27 assists and only three turnovers. We need to do a better job at the free throw line where 11 of 23 won't cut it. But I am happy for the guys. They all chipped in for the win."
WNCC had five players hit the double figure column, led by Chase Mason with 20 points. Tyrell Williams also chipped in 17 points followed by Michael Sparks and Daylon Harris with 10 points each.
The Cougars also got five rebounds from RJ Palmer and four boards from Williams and Mason.
Shooting was the difference in the game. Planet Academy shot 59 percent in the first half and then fell to 45 percent in the second half. WNCC stayed hot in both halves, finishing at 62 percent for the game. WNCC shot 63 percent in the opening half and then 61 percent in the second half.
The Cougars also knocked home seven 3-pointers, led by two each from Mason and Andrew Ramirez.
WNCC shared the ball well, dishing out 27 assists. Ramirez led the team with seven assists followed by Mason Smith with six. The Cougars also had 11 steals, led by Ramirez with four.
WNCC will next be in action tonight when they face Ft. Collins All-stars at 7:30 p.m. The first game on the night will pit Dawson Community College against Planet Academy. The Cougars will finish off the weekend home campaign on Saturday when they face Dawson Community College at 3 p.m.
Planet Academy 45 36 – 81
WNCC (1-0) 44 46 – 90
PLANET ACADEMY
Eric Marbury 17, Jacory Livingston 12, D'Andre Simpson 6, Will Johnson 3, Jachai Taylor 22, Dyrel Johnson 14, Soloman Hunt 7.
WNCC
Daylon Harris 10, Mason Smith 8, RJ Palmer 7, Michael Sparks 10, Austin Payne 2, Leon Tomic 5, Chase Mason 20, Andrew Ramirez 11, Tyrell Williams 17.