Men's Basketball: Raiders Defeat Lions

The Central Community College Raiders men's basketball team posted 91-73 victory over the Community Christian (Mich.) Lions on Saturday. 

The Raiders established an early lead, underscored by Frank Keller's impressive 21 points and 10 rebounds, leading both categories for the team. Carson Starns not only added 15 points but also led with four assists and grabbed three steals, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. Alongside Kazadi Mukoma Jr.'s 17 points, including a key fast break layup, played a crucial role in extending the Raiders' lead during the critical second half.

As the game unfolded at the Raider Fieldhouse, CCC showed resilience and tactical excellence. The first half ended with the Raiders leading 39-33, setting the stage for a more dominant second-half performance, where they led by 20 points. The defensive effort was equally commendable, with the team executing key defensive stops that stifled the Lions' scoring attempts.

"In what felt like a choppy game that couldn't get much flow, I thought we handled ourselves well for most of the game," said CCC head coach Tyler Francis. "Community Christian gave us some different looks defensively and early on had us on our heels, but once we got our footing, we were able to extend the lead and hold it for the majority of the second half. Our ability to make free throws played a big role in us being able to separate from them as well."

Francis also highlighted the contributions from the bench, particularly noting Starns' energetic impact and the ongoing prowess of Keller and Mukoma in the front court.

The Raiders are 11-16 on the season heading into Saturday's home showdown with Southeast Community College. Tip-off is set for 4 p.m. at the Raider Fieldhouse.