Dec. 7, 2007

Final Stats

By Anthony Arroyo Journal-Advocate sports reporter

SALT LAKE CITY -- The Northeastern Junior College Plainsmen jumped out to an early 15-3 lead against North Idaho and held tough to a 40-38 advantage at halftime, before dropping their first game of the year, 87-81, Thursday night at the Salt Lake Classic.

Northeastern, who was ranked fourth in the nation coming into the tournament, is now 12-1 overall. Head coach Eddie Trenkle mentioned through a text message that the team didn't play well defensively and couldn't get stops when they needed them. NJC only missed six free throws in 23 attempts, but North Idaho made 29 free throws, with 17 of them coming in the second half. The team had a lead all through the first had and the beginning parts of the second half. The game was tied at 45 for the first time and once again at 49 with 16:14 to play in the game.

Northeastern would play from behind and actually see the deficit reach 12 before cutting that to five with 46 seconds remaining. Free throws down the stretch by their opponent would hurt their chances for a comeback. North Idaho shot 56 percent from the field against Northeastern's 48.

Jeron Lewis had a big day for the Plainsmen, with 14 of his team high 20 points coming in the second half. Sophomore Troy Smith had 16 points, while Alex Garcia added 15 off the bench.

Mike Dominguez and Lawrence Tyson each finished the contest with nine apiece. NJC will continue tournament action with Colorado Northwestern Community College today at 3:30 p.m. and wrap things up Saturday against Salt Lake Community College at 7:30 p.m.

The tournament will wrap up the first part of the season, sending the players on winter break. NJC returns to Sterling Jan. 7 when they host Frank Phillips College at the Bank of Colorado Event Center for a 6:30 p.m. tip-off.