Hawks down SE Illinois

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Howard College Hawks survived a scare to win their opening round game at the National Junior College Athletic Association Men's National Basketball Tournament here Wednesday afternoon.

The Hawks broke open a tight game midway through the second half to defeat Southeastern Illinois, 73-61.

Guard Lamont Austin led Howard with 18 points, followed by Josh Watkins with 16, Jae Crowder with 14 and Damion McGee with 11.

The Hawks face Walters State (Tenn.) in a second round game at 8:30 p.m. Thursday.

Please see Thursday's Herald for game story and photos.