The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team (5-4) was defeated by No. 15 Connors State College, 95-86, Thursday.
In the first half, NPC countered the Cowboys’ offensive production in the paint from beyond the arc, with sophomore forward Quinntez Grimes (Dallas, TX) and freshman guard Ja’Bryant Hill (Duncanville, TX) setting the tempo early. Connors State College extended its lead from the free throw line, knocking down 9 of 13 attempts to take a 47-39 lead at the break.
Hill stayed hot in the second half for NPC, knocking down three more treys in a 15-point effort over the final 20 minutes. Sophomore guard Justin Davis (Waterbury, CT) paced NPC from the free throw line, sinking 10 of 14 attempts in the final period. Despite improved defense from the Nighthawks, Connors State College knocked down 15 of 16 free throws during the half to seal the deal late, defeating NPC for the second time this season.
Hill led the Nighthawks in scoring with 24 points, while Davis, Grimes and freshman guard Nakavieon White (Odessa, TX) finished with 15, 14 and 14 points, respectively, in the loss.
The Nighthawk men play host to Central Baptist College’s junior varsity team Monday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. in the Kettle. The game will be streamed live on the Nighthawk Network. The Nighthawk women return to action in the Lady Roughrider Classic, hosted by Crowder College in Neosho, MO. NPC will face Eastern Oklahoma State College Friday, Dec. 9 at 5 p.m. and Crowder College Saturday, Dec. 10 at 3 p.m.
For more information on schedules, rosters and more, visit Nighthawk men’s basketball and Nighthawk women’s basketball online. Fans can also follow the Nighthawks all season on social media.
Facebook: Nighthawk Athletics
Twitter: @NPC_Nighthawks
Instagram: nighthawkathletics
Snapchat: npnighthawks
