Behind a dominant performance from James Porter III and a balanced defensive effort, North Central Missouri College secured a 78-70 victory over Marshalltown CC on Tuesday night at the Ketcham Community Center.

Porter III delivered one of his most efficient outings of the season, pouring in a game-high 27 points on 9-of-13 shooting while going 9-of-10 from the free-throw line. The forward also controlled the glass with nine rebounds, including three offensive boards, to anchor the Pirates' interior presence.

Camden Bennett provided a strong complementary scoring punch with 19 points. Bennett knocked down two three-pointers and was aggressive attacking the rim, converting 7-of-8 at the stripe. His ability to generate points in late-clock situations helped NCMC maintain control down the stretch.

Camden Brown added 10 points, five rebounds, two steals, and two blocks, impacting the game on both ends of the floor. Grant Redd contributed nine points and two assists, while Deng Gak chipped in seven points, four rebounds, and a block.

Off the bench, Talan Holt supplied four points, two rebounds, a steal, and a block in 13 minutes, and Jon Jon Neff added two points and two boards.

As a team, the Pirates shot 45 percent (27-of-60) from the field and were particularly effective at the free-throw line, converting 21-of-26 attempts (80.8 percent). NCMC also limited Marshalltown's opportunities at the line and forced 14 turnovers while committing just nine team fouls.

With the win, the Pirates continue to build momentum as they head into the final stretch of the regular season.