Late free throws lift McCook over North Platte

North Platte, Neb. –  A pair of late free throws lifts McCook Community College to a 60-59 win over North Platte on Tuesday night.

Mo Diao led the Knights with 18 points on 9-of-14 shooting, while Justus Michael added 14 points and nine rebounds in 33 minutes.

"This was a really tough game," said head coach Jacob Brandl. "We led almost the entire way, but there were a couple plays that did not go our way at the end."

The second half was a grueling battle, as a late 16-6 run knotted the game up at 56-56 with 2:50 to play. Michael knocked down a three from the deep corner to break the deadlock, but a pair of free throws from Nate Coley edged the visitors back to within one.

The Indians defense limited the Knights offensive chances down the stretch, as McCook would get one final chance to take control late. Madison Peaster earned a trip to the free throw line where he knocked down the final two free throws to lift McCook to the win.

McCook held the momentum early, but the Knights battled back to take the lead on a putback by Michael with 9:27 to play in the first half. The fight raged on until a jumper by Trey Summers sparked a 18-5 run, as lead was pushed to 39-29 at the halftime break.

Knights (13-9) travel to Columbus for a conference matchup with Central Community College on Friday. Tip is set for 6 p.m. inside the Raider Field House.