Dupage Policy Journal

Fourth-seeded Augustana secured a victory on their home court, while North Central made history by becoming the first sixth seed to win in the College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin (CCIW) Tournament during Tuesday's quarterfinals.

In the match between #4 Augustana and #5 Elmhurst, Augustana's junior Staishaun Kelley scored a career-high 29 points, going 11-for-12 at the free-throw line. The Vikings won 92-78, advancing them to face Illinois Wesleyan in the semifinals on Friday at 5 p.m. in Kenosha. "The lead changed hands only twice Tuesday," with Kelley's two foul shots early in the game giving Augustana a lead they maintained throughout. Ray Maurchie contributed 16 points and six rebounds, helping the team outrebound Elmhurst 45-32 and capitalize on turnovers for additional points. Elmhurst's season concluded with an 11-15 record.

In another quarterfinal matchup, #6 North Central defeated #3 North Park with a close score of 94-92. Ethan Helwig was pivotal for North Central, scoring 21 points and hitting a crucial 3-pointer with six seconds remaining to secure the win. "The lead changed hands six times in the final 3:11," showcasing a competitive end to the game after North Central had led by as many as 12 points earlier. Terrance Moncrief added to NCC's efforts with 17 points and nine assists. The Cardinals tied a CCIW Tournament record by making 15 out of their 27 attempts from beyond the arc. They will face #1 Carthage in Friday's semifinal at 7:30 p.m., also in Kenosha.

North Park's Rico Powell scored 22 points, while Lance Nelson provided significant support with ten assists and added his own crucial points late in the game.