Men’s Basketball: Great Western Shootout Recap

The Central Community College men's basketball team won both games of the Great Western Shootout at Iowa Central Community College. A recap of both games is below. The Raiders return to the hardwood on Tuesday night against McCook Community College. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at the Raider Fieldhouse.

Game 1 vs. Ellsworth Community College

Troy Glover hit the game-winning shot as the Raiders defeated the Panthers, 67-66. CCC held a 36-28 lead at halftime when Ellsworth went to work and took the lead midway through the second half. But the Raiders persisted, and Glover rose to the occasion.

"It wasn't pretty, but I was proud of the way we battled down the stretch and made enough plays to pull it out at the end," said CCC head coach John Ritzdorf. "Overall, our defense was real solid and we made them hit tough shots throughout the game while we made late stops."

Game 2 vs. Iowa Central Community College

The host Tritons built a 13-point lead in the first half and went on to lead 28-19 at halftime. The Raiders opened the second half with a 17-8 run to tie the game at 36 apiece. The game remained close the remainder of the way and the Raiders were able to hold on for a 58-54 win.

CCC's Kevin Cook posted a double double with 16 points and 14 rebounds. Jayden Byabato and Trey Deveaux each scored a dozen points.

"We overcame a slow first half offensively and did a much better job of taking care of the ball in the second half," said Ritzdorf. "Kevin (Cook) had a great game on both ends of the floor and guys stepped up to hit timely shots throughout the second half."

The Raiders are now 7-1 on the season.