North Lake Overcomes Big Hole, Knocks Off Grayson on Road

DENISON, Texas -- Dallas College North Lake's men's basketball team overcame a 20-point deficit to knock off host Grayson College Saturday, 80-70.

The Blazers, who are ranked No. 3 in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division III poll, improved to 7-4 against NJCAA Division I opponents this season. It was the final opportunity against a scholarship program this season for North Lake, who bumped its record to 8-4 against NJCAA Division I and II opponents in 2023-24. 

"It was a big win for us," second-year head coach Josh Mills said. "What this team has accomplished so far is remarkable."

North Lake (12-4) has won six straight games entering Wednesday's 6 p.m. home game against Arlington Baptist University Red. The Blazers improved to 4-3 on the road, all against NJCAA Division I opponents.

The Blazers trailed 43-33 at halftime after whittling away the 20-point first half deficit. North Lake held Grayson (7-9) to 27 points in the second half. The Blazers outscored the Vikings by 20 points in the second half. 

"We came out very flat, and were able to fight back into it to get the win," Mills said. "I would prefer that we start off quick and keep a lead, but it's good to have these types of games. It gives the guys confidence that we are never down and out."

North Lake swingman Jakob Zenon scored 16 of his 28 points in the second half, knocking down three of his five triples after the break. It was the ninth time he's reached 20 or more points in a game this season. Zenon has scored in double figures in all but two games this season. Blazers guard Bryson Smith had 12 of his 15 points in the second half.

Anden Holmes scored 10 points, Ring Deng nine and Randy Woolf eight as the Blazers' starters accounted for 87.5 percent of North Lake's points. Autavius Hobbs and Jermey Irwin each had five points.

Grayson's Aaron Lemon-Warren finished with 18 points, and Peyton Ackerman 16. Terrance Ramirez scored all 11 of his points in the first half, and Damarrious Vealy had 10.

"Even though we had a 17-day break, the players were asking me to get in the gym and weight room," Mills said. "We came back in better shape than I expected. This group wants to be good. They want to win."

The Blazers will begin a three-game homestand Wednesday. Games will air on the Blazers Network.