Knights remain unbeaten in Region IX play with win over Raiders

Columbus, Neb.– Nevaeh Golden recorded a career-high 21 points to lead North Platte to a road win over Central Community College on Saturday afternoon, 89-60.

Neveah Golden's 21 points came on 7-of-20 shooting from the field. Nariah Golden chipped in 16 points and tallied seven assists in 16 minutes off the bench, while Jada Thompson (14), Sa'Naii May (12), and Kateria Gooden (10) round out the Knights players in double figures.

"This is a great team win," said head coach Jeff Thurman. "I'm also proud of our effort on the defensive end."

North Platte raced out to a 14-4 lead in the first quarter on a three from Madison Cheleen with 3:53 to play. Knights held the Raiders to just three points over the next three minutes as they stretched their lead to 20-7. Central outscored North Platte in the final minute, but the Knights still held a 22-11 advantage at the end of the first quarter.

A 9-4 run to open the second quarter pulled the Raiders back within six with 6:57 to play. The margin stayed within two possessions until a late run helped widen the Knights lead to 45-29 headed into halftime.

The Knights defense tightened up out of the break as they held the Raiders to just five points in the opening 7:50 of the third quarter. During the stretch, the Knights outscored Central 22-5 behind eight points from May. 

North Platte stretched their lead to 83-46 on a layup by Thompson with 5:28 to play in the fourth quarter. Knights went to their bench in the closing minutes, as they put the finishing touches on their win to remain unbeaten in Region IX play.

North Platte (12-10, 2-0 Region IX) will host the Panthers of York University JV on Tuesday. Tip is scheduled for 5 p.m. inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.