SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (Interstat) — The Western Nebraska men’s basketball team defeated McCook 74-65 in a junior college game Wednesday night. The Cougars used a 39-point first quarter to build a lead and held off the Indians.

Kellon Harris led Western Nebraska with 24 points. Nate Coley scored 22 points for McCook. The Cougars capitalized on superior ball movement and defense, recording 13 assists and 13 steals. McCook struggled from the free-throw line, making only 13 of 24 attempts.

Western Nebraska improved to 9-19 overall. McCook fell to 13-11.