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Scotties Sweep at KCK Classic, Move to 3-0

published November 12, 2012

Scotties Sweep at KCK Classic, Move to 3-0

The Highland Community College men’s basketball team continued its winning ways with a weekend sweep at the Kansas City Kansas Community College Classic. The Scotties defeated Wentworth Military College on Friday night by the final of 107-64. On Saturday, Highland was victorious over North Arkansas College by the score of 79-68.

The Scotties, 3-0 on the season, jumped out quickly on Wentworth Military, building a strong 54-34 halftime lead. In the second half, Highland’s full court pressure continued to stretch the lead en route to the victory despite a large discrepancy in free throws attempted. Wentworth shot a whopping 45 attempts while the Scotties only got to the line 13 times.

The Scotties used a balanced attack on offense, with six players scoring in double figures. They were led by freshman Martell Collins (Milwaukee, WI) with 20 points and nine rebounds. Freshman Kris Smith (Beaumont, TX) had 17 points while sophomore LA Pomlee (Davenport, IA) chipped in 12 points. Freshmen James Walker (Detroit, MI), Marc Ellis (Highland), and Brad Waterman (Basehor) had 13, 11, and 10 points respectively.

“We did some good things against Wentworth, but we continued to turn the ball over too much,” said head coach Jerre Cole. “I don’t know if I have ever been a part of a game that was so lop-sided in terms of the score and see the losing team shoot that many free throws. I guess we are doing something right.”

Against North Arkansas, the Scotties struggled to gain control of the game throughout the first half. A late offensive burst by Highland gave the Scotties a comfortable 43-26 halftime lead. In the second half, the Scotties struggled to find good shots and an offensive rhythm. Despite the large halftime lead, by the five minute mark of the second half, North Arkansas took a two-point lead and looked in control of the game. The Scotties fought back and eventually were able to pull away for the win.

Collins again led the Scotties with 18 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Freshman Jaleni Neely (Chicago, IL) and Pomlee scored 11 points each. Pomlee grabbed a game-high 13 rebounds. Waterman scored 10 points in the victory.

“We ran into a tough, well-rounded team in North Arkansas,” said Cole. “I think this game really matured us and taught us what it is going to take in terms of total focus for us to complete games. It was a very good win.”

The Scotties will next play at North Central Missouri College on Saturday, Nov. 17 at 4:00 p.m.

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