Hesston, KS - Neosho County started conference play on the road Saturday afternoon against Hesston College, and in what was a back and forth affair, ultimately resulted in a 9 point victory for the Larks, 73 - 64.
           
The Panthers held a 1 point lead with 3 minutes remaining in the game, but couldn't contain the penetration of David Duncan, who led the Larks with 27 points, 8 rebounds, 9 steals, and made clutch plays down the stretch for Hesston.
           
NCCC was dominant on the boards, out rebounding Hesston 60-34, but couldn't find any rhythm from behind the arc, shooting a lowly 6/31 from deep. The Panthers also had trouble taking care of the ball as they lost the turnover battle 21-7.
           
The 2 bright spots for the Panthers were shooting guards Alexander Norris (16 points, 5 rebounds, 5/9 FGs), and Shaun Holmes (15 points, 8 rebounds, 3/6 3pt FGs).
           
Neosho County will look to right the ship on Wednesday at home against Highland CC.