Big second half aids in Knights win over Raiders

North Platte, Neb. – North Platte dominates Central Community College in the second half for an 89-61 win inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium on Tuesday night.

Parker Baumann scored all 26 points in the second half, while knocking down four from long range to lead three North Platte players in double figures. Davion Evans chipped in 21 points off the bench, while Bryce Baez scored 13 points on 5-of-11 shooting from the floor.  

Knights quickly erased the one-point deficit in the opening minutes of the second half, as Baumann tallied six points during the 8-3 run. North Platte continued to hold the momentum despite Central tying the game up at 50-50 with 12:31 remaining.

The margin stayed within two possessions for the next three minutes until a 16-2 run helped the Knights pull away for good. Baumann and Evans each scored eight points during the stretch, as stellar defense assisted in propelling North Platte out front.

Knights continued to add to their lead over the final five minutes as they put the finishing touches on their fourth Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference win of the season.

North Platte shot 39.3 percent (11-28) from the field in the first half but countered to shoot 22-of-36 (.611) over the final twenty minutes.  

North Platte (11-11, 4-1 NCCAC) will return to Region IX action against Lamar Community College on Friday. Tip is set for 8 p.m. in Lamar, Colo.