OTTUMWA, Iowa (Interstat) — The Indian Hills Warriors used a dominant first-half offensive display to overpower the Cloud County Thunderbirds 94-80 in a men’s junior college basketball game Saturday.

The Warriors, playing on their home court, improved their season record to 2-0, while the Thunderbirds began their campaign 0-1.

Indian Hills seized control of the game from the opening tip, erupting for 54 points in a blistering first half. The Warriors’ offensive efficiency was stark, as they shot 32 of 58 from the floor for the game, a 55.2 percent clip. They were also effective from beyond the arc, hitting 8 of 19 three-point attempts, and capitalized on their free throw opportunities, making 22 of 29.

Cloud County, despite a valiant effort, struggled with its shooting throughout the contest. The Thunderbirds made just 26 of 71 field goal attempts, a 36.6 percent rate, and were an icy 4 of 22 from three-point range. Their difficulties extended to the free throw line, where they converted only 24 of 37 attempts.

The Thunderbirds did find a significant advantage on the glass, outrebounding Indian Hills 48 to 37, including a commanding 22 offensive rebounds. However, this was offset by 19 turnovers and their overall shooting woes.

KJ LaMonte led the Warriors’ balanced attack, scoring 19 points and dishing out a game-high six assists in 29 minutes of action. Ater Manyuon provided a major spark with 22 points and six rebounds, while Chiang Ring added 16 points and five rebounds. Taj Au-Duke also finished in double figures with 13 points.

For Cloud County, Al Brooks Jr. delivered a standout performance, posting a double-double with a game-high 26 points and 12 rebounds. Elidjah Savane contributed 15 points and eight rebounds, and D’ontez Walker came off the bench to score 11 points.

The game was characterized by a frenetic pace and physical play, resulting in a combined 52 fouls. Indian Hills committed 28 fouls to Cloud County’s 24. Both teams were active defensively, with Indian Hills recording 11 steals and Cloud County tallying nine.

According to Interstat’s ELO system, Indian Hills entered the contest with a 64 percent probability to win, a projection they fulfilled with their efficient offensive execution.

Indian Hills next travels to face Dodge City on Tuesday. Cloud County returns to action on Nov. 7 for its home opener against State Fair.