Derkack scores 27 points to lead Merrimack past Sacred Heart

NORTH ANDOVER — Jordan Derkack had 27 points in Merrimack's 82-58 win over Sacred Heart on Saturday afternoon at Lawler Arena. Merrimack improved to 2-0 in the NEC with the win (8-8 overall).

“Our coaches and everyone on the scout team does a good job preparing for games,” Derkack said. “We very well prepared today. We did a great job sharing the ball and everyone found their pockets, so we got it done."

“Our coaches do a great job (scouting). We knew they were going to hedge on ball screens, so we countered that with some flashing and slipping out of screens. Big credit to our coaches for preparing us for that.”

The Warriors shot 52 percent from three. The Warriors extended their home winning streak to 13 games.

“We love playing at home,” Derkack said. “When we feel good, we shoot good. When we play well on defense that also translates in our shooting percentage.”

Gallo added: “Obviously 52 percent is high, but I thought the quality of shots we got played into that. In non-conference our three-point percentage is down a little. It’s tough to win matchups and draw help. Our percentages usually go up in league play.”

Derkack had seven rebounds for the Warriors. Devon Savage scored 18 points on six 3-pointers and added four steals. Adam Clark finished with 10 points and 10 assists.

“We showed Budd some film of our guards last year getting into the paint and springing out and he had seven assists in the (first) half which set the tone for the game,” Gallo said.

The Pioneers (7-10, 1-1) were led by Nico Galette, who posted 22 points, eight rebounds and two steals. Sacred Heart also got 12 points from Kyle McGee.

NOTES: Clark had his first career double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. … Merrimack forced 18 Pioneer turnovers. They scored 17 points off the turnovers.

NEXT: The Warriors have this week off, and will hit the road next Saturday (Jan. 13) at Le Moyne.

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