Neosho County Community College earned a statement victory Friday night, knocking off No. 7-ranked Palm Beach State College, 75-66, in Chanute. The victory marked the first career win for head coach Gage Delimont.
Neosho County came out strong, taking a 33-25 lead into halftime and holding off a second-half push from Palm Beach State. The Panthers’ balanced offensive attack and ability to capitalize on turnovers proved to be key factors in the nine-point victory.
Jayce Cooper led the Panthers with 24 points, eight rebounds and three steals. Zachery Lewis also delivered a big night, finishing with 21 points, six rebounds and three assists. Colby Newton contributed eight points, while Terrance Tolbert added six.
Neosho County finished the night shooting 40 percent from the field and forced 18 Palm Beach State turnovers, turning those mistakes into 24 points. The Panthers also controlled the paint, outscoring Palm Beach State 34-28.
The Panthers will return to action Monday, November 2, at 5:30 p.m., when they host Redlands Community College in Panthers Gymnasium.
