STERLING, Colo. (Interstat) — In a high-scoring and sloppy men’s junior college basketball game Sunday, the Northeastern Junior College Plainsmen outlasted the Southeast Community College Bobcats 93-87.

The game, played on Jan. 18, 2026, was defined by offensive runs and a significant disparity in ball security. The Plainsmen improved to 8-4 overall, while the Bobcats fell to 5-4.

Northeastern built a commanding 49-33 lead by the end of a frantic first quarter, but Southeast chipped away throughout the second quarter. The Bobcats’ effort was led by Chang Deng, who scored 18 points, and Marquis Toliver, who added 15. Despite shooting just 39.4% from the field (28 of 71), Southeast stayed close by capitalizing on Northeastern’s mistakes, forcing 13 turnovers while committing only four, and by grabbing 19 offensive rebounds.

However, the Plainsmen’s efficiency and individual firepower proved too much. They shot 51.7% from the floor (31 of 60) and were led by a standout performance from Dodge Davis. Davis, the game’s top star, scored 22 points, grabbed seven rebounds and dished out four assists, a significant uptick from his recent performances. He was supported by Ethan Carter’s game-high 25 points and Quis Davis’s 17 points.

The most critical sequence of the game occurred late in the second quarter with the score tied 87-87. After a Southeast turnover, Ethan Carter drove for a layup to put Northeastern ahead 89-87 with just five seconds remaining. Southeast’s ensuing inbounds play resulted in a desperation three-point attempt that missed as time expired, sealing the Plainsmen’s victory.

Statistically, the game was a contrast in styles. Northeastern posted a higher offensive rating (116.2) on more possessions (80), while Southeast had a stellar 124.4 offensive rating but on only 68 possessions, hampered by their poor shooting. The Plainsmen also dominated at the free-throw line, attempting 38 shots to Southeast’s 26, though they made only 24. Southeast held advantages in rebounding (40-38) and assists (a remarkably low 2-7 for both teams), but their 22 fouls and inability to get consistent stops in the final minutes were decisive.

Both teams continue region play next week. Southeast travels to face North Platte on Wednesday, while Northeastern visits Otero on Friday. The teams are scheduled for a rematch in Beatrice, Nebraska, on Feb. 11.