Thunderwolves top Lakeland in season opener

Despite having 24 less shot attempts, Niagara County Community College pulled out an 88-86 non-conference victory over visiting Lakeland Community College on Wednesday night. The Thunderwolves, who are ranked No. 15 in the preseason NJCAA Div. II poll and improved to 1-0, made up for the field-goal disparity by finishing 29-of-49 from the free-throw line.

Sophomore guard Donel Cathcart led NCCC with 23 points and 12 rebounds. Classmate Laterrance Reed added 21 points and freshman wing Najee Scott finished with 19 points and seven boards in his college debut.

Jeramie Burge had a game-high 27 points to lead the Lakers (0-1). Ty Howard added 26 points and seven rebounds.

Next up for the T-Wolves is a home date with regional rival Monroe CC. Tip is set for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday.