Local Sports Journal
Mason County Central eeked out a 58-55 win over visiting North Muskegon on Tuesday night.
The Spartans overcame a Norse rally that saw the lead change 10 times in the fourth quarter.
“They played a tremendous game,” said MCC coach Jeff Tuka. “I have to credit their defense to hold us down in the third and their ability to hit shots in the fourth.”
North Muskegon trailed 28-18 at half and cut the Spartans’ lead to just two points entering the fourth, 36-34.
Tony Gordon’s 3-pointer early in the final quarter gave North Muskegon its first lead.
Nick Bennett drained a 3-pointer with 1:50 left to put MCC up by two and the Spartans were able to hold on the rest of the way.
“North Muskegon hit four 3s in the second half at the opportune times when they needed them,” said Tuka. “That was a tough win for us. North Muskegon played a fantastic game.”
The Norse almost forced overtime on a halfcourt shot that banked and rolled out.
MCC was led by Kody Ambrose who scored nine of his game-high 19 points in the fourth quarter.
Nick Bennett produced his third double-double of the season with 16 points and 10 rebounds for the Spartans. Payton Tindall tallied 12 points, eight rebounds and three steals for the Spartans.
Sam Powell led North Muskegon with 15 points and seven rebounds. Wil Byl scored 15 points and Gordon finished with six.
