NICEVILLE, FLA. – Relying on torrid 65.2 percent in the second half, North Carolina Central trimmed Southern, 83-71, in the seventh place game of the Emerald Coast Classic Saturday.
Junior swingman Randy Miller paced a balanced North Carolina Central attack with 22 points, including 13 in the first half. Miller also collected five assists and two steals.
North Carolina Central went on a 11-0 run to break away from a 28-26 lead. The Eagles, who improved to 2-5, never look backed after owning a 39-31 halftime lead.
Senior center Raasean Davis, senior swingman Larry McKnight along with sophomore Rashann London added 15 points apiece for the Eagles.
“We grew as a team today,” said North Carolina Central head coach LaVelle Moton.. “We went through some adversity. I was extremely proud of the way our guys responded, particular Randy Miller and Raasean Davis.”
Freshman guard Jayden Saddler netted a team-high 18 points to key Southern.
Senior forward Sidney Umude had 17 points and 10 rebounds for Southern, while senior guard Eddie Reese chipped in with 15 points.
North Carolina Central finished the game, shooting 53.1 percent from the floor (26-49), while Southern shot 49.1 percent (27-55).
