BROOKLINE, Ma. - The Newbury College men's basketball team upset Southern Vermont College, 77-62, Saturday afternoon in NECC action. Five Nighthawks scored in double-figures led by sophomore guard Tim Young with 20 points. Sophomore forward Rondell Best recorded his first double-double of the season tallying 11 points and 11 boards. Southern Vermont's freshman forward Ben Naaktgeboren matched Young with 20 points scored in their defeat.
The Mountaineers and Nighthawks battled back-and-forth early in the first half. Newbury went on a 15 to 3 run capped by a 3-pointer by Best who was assisted by Kwame Thompson. With 6:46 remaining, a 3-pointer by Young gave the Nighthawks a 17 point advantage, 38-21, their largest of the game. Southern Vermont battled back cutting the lead to nine points at the half, 42-33, led by Derrick Cenicola who hit for three 3-pointers scoring 12 total points in the first half.
Southern Vermont's momentum was cut short after the half with Newbury's sophomore guard John Rowley hitting a quick 3-pointer. Two free-throws by Mountaineers freshman guard Greg Holt cut Newbury's lead to six with 5:25 remaining. Newbury was able to fend off Southern Vermont for the remainder of the game highlighted by Eric Watson's drive to the basket and completion of a three-point play at the foul line. Nighthawks' freshman forward, and NECC Player of the Week, Peterson Bernard contributed in the Nighthawks' victory with 14 points and 9 rebounds.
Newbury College's overall record improves to 6-12 and 5-4 in the NECC. Southern Vermont College falls to 11-8 overall and 5-3 in conference play. The Nighthawks return to action Tuesday, February 1st when they host non-conference opponent Fitchburg State College at 7:00pm.