The Santa Monica College men’s basketball team couldn’t build on a 15-point second half lead but was solid at the finish of an 87-79 non-league home win over Rio Hondo Friday night, November 30.
The Corsairs improved their record to 7-2 as center John Brown and guard Noah Gottlieb each scored 17 points.
SMC raced to a 10-1 lead and was in charge until a barrage of three-point baskets brought Rio Hondo within two, 79-77. SMC’s last eight points were on four free throws each by forwards Kevan Cross and Carl Kindborg.
SMC will participate in the Rio Hondo, Saddleback, and College Of the Desert Tournaments and won’t play at home again until January 2 at 7:30 p.m. against Pierce College.