The Cardinals raced to a 19-5 lead after a three-point play by Anthony Simmons (Bolingbrook, Ill./Romeoville) at the 15-minute mark of the first half. Nevertheless, Augustana rallied and later tied the score at 29s. However, the Cardinals ended the half with a 19-6 run to lead 48-35 at the break.
North Central controlled the game throughout the second half, leading by as many as 30 points. Simmons finished with a game-high 30 points and 14 rebounds. Dan Walton (Carol Stream, Ill./Glenbard North) also had a double-double with 12 points and 10 boards. Adam Teising (Naperville, Ill./Naperville Central) added 14 points and Ray Vicario (Orland Park, Ill./Sandburg) 11.
Augustana had only one player in double figures, Rick Harrigan with 18 points. The Cardinals were dominant on the boards, outrebounding the Vikings 41-22. North Central also shot 8 of 20 from three-point range (40 percent).
CCIW TOURNAMENT - Tickets for the College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin Tournament hosted by Augustana College are currently on sale. The Cardinals play Friday, Feb. 24, at 6 p.m. They are the No. 2 seed.
Tickets are $5 and can be bought at the following locations until noon on Wednesday, Feb. 22.
Harold & Evan White Activities Center: 637-5400
Merner Field House: 637-5500
EMASA Office (5th floor of Old Main): 637-5151