RANGELY, Colo. – Colorado Northwestern Men's Basketball was back at home on Dec. 5 for a home, non-conference tilt against Community Christian and the Spartans emerged with an 85-52 win.
 
The first half was close as CNCC's offense sputtered, shooting just 29 percent from the floor and 16 percent from three-point range. But Head Coach Ben Cruickshank's squad turned it around in the second half. They shot 61 percent as a team while dropping 55 points over the last 20 minutes. The home defense matched the second-half offense as well, holding the Saints to 25-percent shooting.
 
Cole Johnson was tops for CNCC thanks to 26 points, six rebounds, four steals and three assists. Mitch Jeppesen notched an 18-point, 10-rebound double-double. Mason Mickelsen added to the highlights with 10 points and six rebounds. Santiago Casarin led all players by pulling down 14 rebounds. He also scored nine points.
 
Colorado Northwestern returns to action on Dec. 28 against Multnomah Junior Varsity in Ontario, Ore. The Spartans face Blue Mountain Community College on Dec. 29 and Treasure Valley Community College on Dec. 30, also in Ontario, Ore.
 
Fans can keep up with CNCC men's basketball on social media at @CnccMbb on "X" (formerly Twitter), at cncc_mbb on Instagram, and on Facebook by searching "CNCC Men's Basketball."