Estherville, Iowa — The Iowa Lakes Lakers showed grit and determination Wednesday night at the Iowa Lakes Gymnasium, but a slow start and cold shooting proved costly in a 67–57 loss to Northeast Community College.

Despite trailing by six at halftime, the Lakers fought back in the second half, improving their shooting to 40% and cutting the deficit to single digits multiple times. Iowa Lakes dominated the glass, outrebounding Northeast 40–28, and scored 14 second-chance points, showcasing their hustle and physicality.

Timothy Ofesi was a force inside, recording a double-double with 13 points, 15 rebounds, and 6 blocks while Jermaine Freeman led all Lakers with 17 points, attacking the rim and converting 6-of-7 from the free-throw line. Jorge Castro added 13 points, including three three-pointers, giving Iowa Lakes a spark from the perimeter. Cooper Harris was also in double figured adding 10 points to go along with 6 rebounds. 

Defensively, the Lakers held Northeast to just 2-of-9 from beyond the arc and forced 11 turnovers, turning them into 13 points. However, Iowa Lakes struggled from deep themselves, shooting 6-of-28 from three, and couldn't overcome Northeast's advantage in the paint (38–22) and steady free-throw shooting.

The Lakers will look to build on their rebounding dominance and defensive effort as they prepare for their next matchup Saturday, December 5th in Estherville at 3 pm