NC Central leads from start, beats Norfolk State 72-57

NORFOLK, Va. (AP) — Patrick Cole had 19 points and Rashaun Madison drilled 6 of 12 from beyond the arc for 18 more as North Carolina Central took an early lead and coasted to a 72-57 win over Norfolk State on Saturday night.

Cole also dished out six assists and had two steals for the Eagles (11-6, 2-1 Mid-Eastern). Dajuan Graf was 6 of 7 from the floor for 13 points and Kyle Benton chipped in 10 while grabbing 12 rebounds.

The Eagles made 11 of 25 from distance while Norfolk State managed just 3-of-16.

NC Central fell to Delaware State 69-68 on Tuesday night for its only league loss.

The Eagles, who never trailed, jumped out to a 33-27 halftime advantage, pushed that to 53-39 midway in the second half and led 60-48 at the 5:55 mark.

Kerwin Okoro had 21 points and Jonathan Wade added 20 for Norfolk State (4-13, 1-2).