NIACC stops Northeast in OT, 98-97

NORFOLK, Neb. - The NIACC men's basketball team edged Northeast CC 98-97 in overtime Saturday afternoon in an ICCAC contest.

Sophomore guard Omarion Roberts converted a layup with five seconds left in overtime to put the Trojans in front by a single point and the Trojans stopped the Hawks on their final possession to claim the road victory. it was the first overtime victory by the Trojans since they topped Iowa Western 83-77 on Feb. 26, 2022 in the regional tournament in Mason City.

NIACC (10-2 overall) improved to 3-0 in the ICCAC and the Trojans lead the league by a half-game over DMACC, which is 2-0 in league play. The 3-0 start by the Trojans in the league is their best start since opening 2019-20 league play with three straight wins.

The 10-2 start by the Trojans is their best start through 12 games since the 2019-20 Trojans started 11-1.

Saturday's contest was tied 87-87 after regulation and the Trojans outscored the Hawks 11-10 in the extra session.

Roberts, the reigning ICCAC Division II player of the week, led the Trojans with 24 points. He also collected 12 rebounds with three assists and two steals.

Sophomore Adam Hackett also had a double/double for the Trojans with 22 points and 13 rebounds.

It is the second time this season that the Trojans have had at least two players score at least 20 points in game. In a 123-107 victory over the Mount Mercy Junior Varsity on Nov. 7, Roberts scored a career-high 36 points and Lance Helming scored 25 points.

Also for the Trojans on Saturday, Keon Alexander scored 17 points with six rebounds, Zion Wright scored 14 points with nine rebounds and Randy McClendon scored a 10 points.

NIACC returns to action Wednesday at home against Southwestern CC in an ICCAC contest. Game time in the NIACC gym is slated for 7:30 p.m.