Cards Deal Another Victory

The NIC Men’s Basketball team beat Blue Mountain Community College 72-54 at the Christianson Gymnasium on Saturday Night.

The Cardinals overcame a slow start to route the visiting Timberwolves. An extended 32-6 scoring run by NIC wiped away an early 22-9 deficit, and the run culminated in a 15-point second half lead for the home team. Charles Williams played a big role in the comeback run, scoring an efficient 15 points to pace the team.

The Cardinals defend the basket in a second-half win over Blue Mountain CC. From left to right are Jarod Greene, Charles Williams, and RayQuan Evans.

Seth Christiaens and Jarod Greene combined for 23 points, dominating in the paint. The two men used their size to physically direct the game and clean up any misses that bounced their way. Another factor was indeed the Cards’ three-point defense. After the Timberwolves got off to a scorching start from deep, the defense held them to 10-32 shooting overall. The improved defense rejected any recovery attempt from the visiting team.

Tyler Brimhall also played an effective role for the Cardinals, securing 11 rebounds, and knocking down two clutch three-pointers while the Cards made their run.

The win elevated the Cards to 6-2 in conference play, and an overall record of 16-5. They’ve now advanced to second place in the East standings.

The Cardinals will have a week to prepare for their next test, when they will carry a three-game winning streak into their match-up against Yakima Valley next Saturday, Feb. 3. NIC will host at Christianson Gymnasium, tip-off is at 4:00 p.m.