The North Greenville men's basketball team began its season with a big win over the North Georgia Nighthawks 62-58 in Dahlonega, Georgia. With the win, the Crusaders have won three opening-season games in a row. DJ Brooks led NGU with 17 points.

1st Half

NGU wasted little time, getting on the board on their first possession of the game when Kovi Tate hit a three-pointer. Tied 5-5 two minutes into the half, the Crusaders would go on a seven-point run to lead 12-5. With eight minutes remaining in the half, North Greenville held its largest lead of the game when Daniel Burchette hit a jumpshot to give NGU a 26-13 lead. At the half, the Crusaders led 31-23 and shot 41.4% from the field. DJ Brooks led with eleven points.

2nd Half

The two teams traded points early on, but North Georgia put together a 13-2 run to take a 39-38 lead with thirteen minutes remaining. From there, neither team would lead by more than five points. NGU held a 57-52 lead with just over two minutes remaining. Both teams were tested at the free throw line over the final four minutes. UNG cut their deficit to two points with six seconds remaining, but the Crusaders held on for the win. North Greenville shot 36.4% in the second half. Daniel Burchette led in points with seven.

Individual

DJ Brooks had a strong start to the season with 17 points and 6 rebounds.

Roderick Howell posted 10 points and 6 rebounds.

Daniel Burchette led in minutes played (37) and recorded 9 points, all from three-point range.

Upcoming

The Crusaders will remain in Dahlonega to face the Georgia College Bobcats tomorrow at 2:00 PM.