NORFOLK – The Northeast Community College men’s basketball team improved to 20-5 after an 87-66 win here Wednesday against Central Community College.

The Hawks came out strong and scored the game’s first 12 points which were highlighted by three break away dunks. Northeast continued its strong play as it took a 42-25 lead into the locker room at halftime. After the Raiders closed the gap to 12 points in the second half, the Hawks went on a strong run and took its largest lead, 66-37, with 9:40 remaining in the ball game. Northeast cruised the rest of the way.

“I was happy that we took care of business and did not overlook this game tonight, said Dan Anderson, Hawks coach.

Five Hawks scored in double figures with Buay Tuach leading the way with 21 points. Jalen Bradley finished with 14 while Chima Moneke recorded a double-double, scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds. LJ Westbrook and Shawn Lipscomb scored 12 and 11 points, respectively. Westbrook and Kevin Metoyer both recorded eight assists each. The Hawks shot 51 percent from the field and forced Central into 20 turnovers.

On Saturday, the Hawks travel to West Burlington, IA, to take on #22 Southeastern Community College. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.

In the women’s game, Northeast defeated Central, 81-74. The win came on the same day Northeast entered the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division I Top 25 Poll at #23.

The Hawks (21-4) will be in action on Friday as the team travels to Fremont to take on the Midland University JV. Game time is 7:30 p.m.