Eckermann’s career high not enough for Central men’s basketball team

Central College

DUBUQUE — Guard Nile Eckermann (senior, Cosgrove, Clear Creek Amana HS) poured in a career-high 35 points Saturday, but a late first-half run by Loras was the difference in an 83-71 loss for the Central College men’s basketball team.

After 10 minutes of play the Dutch (9-6 overall, 2-2 Iowa Conference) trailed the Duhawks (7-8, 2-2) by just two, 27-25. Loras then went on a 24-7 run to take a 51-32 lead at the half.

“The difference during that last 10 minutes of the half was offensive rebounding,” said coach Craig Douma. “We coupled that with some turnovers, and that’s the difference in the game right there.”

Loras outrebounded Central 41-25 with a 15-5 edge on the offensive glass.

The Duhawk lead grew to 23 with 13 minutes to play in the second half before Central started to cut into it. The Dutch then scored 21 of the game’s next 28 points to pull within 10, 72-62, with less than five minutes to play. Loras was able to halt the Central run to hold on for the 83-71 victory.

“We were able to create some turnovers and get some transition baskets,” said Douma. “We attacked, and we were more aggressive offensively.”

Eckermann’s 35 points are tied for the 17th most in a game in Dutch history. He was 14-for-24 from the field and 7-for-14 from beyond the arc.

“Nile really shot the ball well, and he also did a nice job attacking the hole,” said Douma. “He just had a good complete game and played well on both ends of the floor.”

Guard Aaron Rosenstiel (senior, Oelwein) was also in double figures for Central, finishing with 15 points and three rebounds.

“I’m really proud of how Aaron bounced back after a rough first half,” said Douma. “He came to play, and he made things happen.”

Forward Colby Taylor (sophomore, Creston) grabbed a team-high eight boards, and forward Kyle Newendorp (senior, Pella) had five rebounds and scored six points.

The Dutch will return home to face Buena Vista (9-5, 2-1) Wednesday at 8 p.m.