North Central took control early, shooting 54 percent in the first half and leading by as many as 20 points on several occassions. The team was 6 of 6 from the line and hit five three-pointers. Although leading-scorer Anthony Simmons (Bolingbrook, Ill./Romeoville) had only four points in the first half, Dan Walton (Carol Stream, Ill./Glenbard North) totaled 10, Ray Vicario (Orland Park, Ill./Sandburg) eight and Adam Krumtinger (Towanda, Ill./Normal) six. The Cardinals led by as many as 25 in the second half.
"It didn't seem easy, but I thought we passed the ball really well and we got off to a great start," said head coach Todd Raridon. "We got some good looks and got out in transition for some easy baskets."
Vicario finished with 21 points (8 of 11 from the floor, five three-pointers) to lead North Central. Walton totaled 17 points, Simmons 12 and Adam Teising (Naperville, Ill./Naperville Central) 11. Simmons also added seven rebounds and six assists.
Carthage was led by Kyle Jeffery with 30 points. He was the only Red Men in double figures.
North Central concludes its seven-game, January road trip with a 7:30 p.m. contest at Augustana Saturday. The Vikings are currently ranked ninth in the nation by D3hoops.com.