The North Country Community College men's basketball team used a big second half Saturday to pull away to an 83-63 win over Jefferson Community College.

The Saints leading, 33-32, at the half outscored their opponent, 50-31, in the second half.

"In the second half, our defense really took control of the game," North Country coach Daryl Crist said. "Our big guys really shut down their big Christian Rohlehr. He's big at 6-9. He had a big game the night before, so our guys really took control on the defense and rebounding.

"We were able to push the pace a little bit and get out in transition to score 50 points in the second half. Our big three of Ja'quan McGill, Donte Crumpler and Malik Wilkinson stepped up for us."

Damon Hunter paced the Saints with 22 points, while McGill added 16, Crumpler 15, Wilkinson 11 and Tyquan Porter, 10.

"Right now, we are getting great point guard play from Damon Hunter," Crist said. "We shared the ball well with 25 assists.

"Our team defense is solid right now."

The Saints take on Word of Life at home Tuesday night. Game time is 7pm.