NCCC completes big comeback vs. Dragons

Niagara County Community College completed a huge second-half comeback to knock off Howard Community College, 64-60, in a battle of nationally-ranked teams at the NCCC Tip-Off Classic on Saturday night.

NCCC, ranked No. 13, improved to 2-1 overall. HCC, ranked No. 16, dropped to 4-1.

The Thunderwolves, who trailed 38-22 at intermission, forced 14 second-half turnovers and finished 31-of-41 at the free-throw line in the win.

NCCC freshman guard Justin Hendrick scored a game-high 18 points, while classmate LaMarqus Merchant Jr. had nine points and 10 rebounds from the point-guard position.

David Garey had 13 points to lead the Dragons.

N-Trip has a quick turnaround with a 3 p.m. Sunday tip vs. Lackawanna College in the final game of the Tip-Off Classic.