COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - A slow start for the Reivers seal the game for visiting 25th-ranked Western Nebraska Community College, who defeated the 18th-ranked Reivers 65-53 in the opening home game inside Kanesville Arena.

 

The game featured and up-tempo style with both teams finding their way offensively with Western Nebraska (3-1) getting out to a lead early. After a steal and fast-break layup by freshman guard Naomie Alnatas cut the lead to 4, WNCC took control in the rest of the second quarter extending it's lead to 9 at halftime on just 37% first half shooting by Iowa Western (2-1).

 

Out of the break the pace continued with both teams playing aggressive in the open floor. The Reivers fought back trailing by 4 after a Zhan'e Williams pull-up who provided a spark off the bench on both ends of the floor. During the final period, WNCC kept the Reiver attack at bay with timely scoring from freshman Merle Wiehl and sophomore post Jaleesa Avery. Iowa Western was lead in scoring by sophomore post Jazza Johns on 4 of 6 shooting and freshman guard Zhan'e Williams with 10 points on 5 of 8 shooting dishing out 2 assists.

 

Western Nebraska was lead in scoring by Merle Wiehl and Jaleesa Avery as each poured in 17 points. Western Nebraska made 25 of 58 field foals in the game for 43%. Iowa Western finished at 37% on 22 of 59 from the field.

 

The Reivers stay at home to host Briar Cliff JV at 5pm, Saturday inside Kanesville Arena for the final game of the Holiday Inn/Hampton Inn Classic.