A thrilling 92-85 double overtime victory over conference rival Central Community College on Wednesday, January 25, propelled a struggling SCC Storm team into a 84-81 road win over Hesston College, Saturday, January 31.

“Our season started tonight,” Head Coach Joel Wooton said following the win over Central.

“Hopefully, it gives us the confidence we need going forward, “ Wooton added.

SCC was indeed confident from the tip off against Hesston, as they jumped out to a 10-0 lead on a team that beat them 80-55 at home on January 24.

Assistant Coach Aaron Block said the run set the tone for the rest of the game.

“Our pressure bothered them early,” Block said. “We created some turnovers and (forced some) quick shots that led to us getting some baskets in transition.”

SCC stretched the score to 22-10 before Hesston battled back to pull within two at 33-31 at the half.

The Larks were in control late in the game, leading by three when Synder Cenecharles hit a game tying trey to force an overtime.

The Storm outscored Hesston 14-11 in the overtime period to secure the win.

Southeast was without the services of 6’11’’ sophomore Rakeem Hicks in the earlier loss to Hesston.

Block said having Hicks in the lineup this time created match-up problems for the Larks.

“He created multiple offensive rebounding opportunities and he allows us to play inside out, because he is a good passer out of the post, “Block explained. “His presence opens up the floor for our shooters on the perimeter.”

SCC shot a blistering 56 percent from the field and were led by Altez Davis and Noah Scott with 18 points apiece.

In addition to having Hicks back, Block said improved play from Scott was a key in the win.

“Noah Scott played his best floor game of the year,” Block explained. “He did a fantastic job of controlling tempo.”

Block also credit Cenecharles and Sophomore John Swift for hitting some “huge shots” in overtime.

The Storm improve to 8-15 on the season. They host Union College Tuesday, February 3, at 7 p.m. and Doane JV on Friday, February 6, at 7 p.m. Both games can be viewed on ihigh.com/scc storm.