Men’s Basketball: CCC Cooks McCook

Men’s Basketball: CCC Cooks McCook

Derek Merwick poured in 34 points to lead the Raiders to an 87-76 victory over McCook Community College on Monday night at the Raider Fieldhouse.

The first half was close before the Raiders moved out to a 10-point lead, 33-23, with two-and-a-half minutes to go. The Indians closed out the half on a 9-2 run and trailed 35-32 at halftime. The first 11 minutes of the second half were close as the teams were tied at 59 apiece. The Raiders responded with an 22-9 run over a five-minute span to put the game away.

Three other CCC players joined Merwick in the double-digit column. PJ Davis scored 14 points while Trey Deveaux posted a double-double with a dozen points and 10 rebounds. Jayden Byabato finished with 11 points.

"Derek was unbelievable," said CCC head coach John Ritzdorf. "He controlled the entire game and his decision making and shot making was high level tonight. PJ, Jayden and Trey all hit big shots throughout the game too. Blake (Daberkow) did a great job of altering and blocking shots late in the game."

The Raiders have now won three in a row and sport a record of 19-9.

CCC returns to action on Saturday with 4 p.m. match against Southeast Community College at the Raider Fieldhouse. Admission to the game is free as part of CCC's Alumni Weekend festivities.