NORFOLK– The Northeast Community College women’s basketball team opened its season at home on Friday, falling to Northeastern Junior College 71-60, before grabbing its first victory of the season on Saturday against Iowa Central Community College 66-51 at the Cox Activities Center.

Despite taking a two-point lead into halftime, the Hawks couldn’t hold on as Northeastern recorded 24 points in the third quarter. The Plainswomen kept the Hawks out of rhythm for much of the second half, allowing only seven shots from the field.

Northeastern pushed the ball for the remainder of the game and ultimately took a 16-point lead to keep the game out of reach for the Hawks.

Lauren Hunstad of Parker led Northeast with 12 points. Kori Fischer of South Sioux City, Neb. and Jade Blackburn of Surrey, England chipped in 10 points each, while Irene Sanz of Vilassar de Mar, Spain added nine points and eight boards.

Saturday was a different story for the Hawks.

Northeast allowed only 14 points to the Tritons throughout the first half and four 3-pointers in the game. Aside from a stout defensive effort, Northeast shot 39 percent from the field and 90 percent from the charity stripe.

Sanz led the Hawks with 15 points and five boards. The sophomore was 3-of-5 from beyond the arc and 5-of-10 from the field. Blackburn tallied 12 points, while Teagan Pompa of Elgin, Ill. added 11 points on 4-of-6 shooting from the field.

The Hawks (1-1) head south to take on Concordia University JV at 7 p.m. Monday in Seward, Neb.

For all news related to Northeast Community College athletics, visit northeasthawks.com for complete coverage. Fans can also follow the Hawks on Twitter @NortheastHawks for game-day coverage.