Carter’s Buzzer-Beater Lifts Northeastern Past Lamar, 84-83

STERLING, Colo. — Northeastern Junior College edged Lamar Community College 84-83 on Saturday at the Bank of Colorado Event Center, winning on a last-second put-back buzzer beater by Ethan Carter after electing to play out the final possession instead of calling a timeout.

The Plainsmen led 38-30 at halftime, controlling much of the first half with efficient offense and steady rebounding. Lamar answered after the break, stringing together stops and transition baskets to seize momentum. With 12:38 remaining in the game, Lamar grabbed its largest lead at 55-45, putting Northeastern in a 10-point hole and forcing the Plainsmen to respond on both ends of the floor.

Northeastern’s comeback began with an extended run built on defensive pressure and improved ball movement. The Plainsmen tightened their on-ball defense, limiting Lamar’s looks in the paint and on the perimeter while turning rebounds into quick scoring chances. As the deficit shrank, Northeastern continued to attack the basket and draw contact, chipping away at the lead and setting up a tense final stretch.

DDC Player of the Game, Ethan Carter led the way for Northeastern with a double-double, finishing with 19 points and 12 rebounds. His work on the glass proved decisive, culminating in the game-winning put-back in the closing seconds after the Plainsmen held for the final shot. Dodge Davis added 17 points and 3 rebounds, providing timely scoring during the second-half surge, while Quis Davis contributed 15 points and 4 assists to help steady the offense and create opportunities for teammates.

In the closing minutes, both teams traded baskets and defensive stops as the margin stayed within one or two possessions. Lamar’s earlier 10-point advantage disappeared under Northeastern’s sustained pressure, and the contest turned into a series of half-court possessions decided by execution. The Plainsmen continued to rely on inside touches and second-chance opportunities, setting the stage for Carter’s final rebound and put-back as time expired.

The win moves Northeastern forward with momentum after rallying from a double-digit deficit and closing out a one-point decision at home. Behind Carter’s double-double and strong performances from Quis and Dodge Davis, the Plainsmen showed resilience in late-game situations, a positive sign as the schedule continues in Region IX play.