NORTHEAST SEASON WRAPS UP IN QUARTERFINALS

ESTHERVILLE, Iowa – The Northeast Community College men's basketball team was back in Estherville, Iowa Saturday to battle No. 5 Iowa Lakes Community College in the Quarterfinal Round of the Region XI Division II Men's Basketball Tournament. The Lakers came out on top in the duel by a final score of 68-54 to close the book on the 2022-2023 season for Northeast.

The Hawks (15-17, 5-11 ICCAC) knew top-seeded Iowa Lakes would present a challenge on their home floor, but Northeast did not go down without a fight. Chaz Cullum (Omaha, Neb.) totaled the first five points for the Hawks before finishing the evening with 19.

Northeast hounded Iowa Lakes in the showdown as forcing the Lakers to turn the ball over 21 times was a big reason the Hawks were able to stay close on the scoreboard. Ben Hammond (Norfolk, Neb.) put in 13 points in what became the final matchup of his freshman campaign. Hammond tallied 28 points combined in Northeast's two playoff games in what was a positive sign for what's to come with the men's basketball program.

STAT SHEET:

Chaz Cullum (Omaha, Neb.): 19 PTS, 8 REB, 3 STL

Ben Hammond (Norfolk, Neb.): 13 PTS, 3 REB

HEAR FROM THE HAWKS COACH:

Assistant men's basketball coach Junior Denis on what this team has meant to him:

"I saw a group that grew from their freshman to sophomore years," Denis said. "I'm really going to miss them. They played their hearts out. I wouldn't want to coach any other group of guys than these ones right here. I love them. We have made memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life."

THANK YOU FANS:

As the 2022-2023 season winds down, the Northeast Community College men's basketball team and Northeast Athletics would like to extend a thank you to all fans and supporters who were with us along the journey this year. We can't wait to see you all again for the 2023-2024 season.

HAWKS HAPPENINGS:

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