FREEPORT, Ill. — The Marshalltown Community College men’s basketball team came up empty on a pair of late 3-point attempts and couldn’t complete the comeback against Highland CC in Saturday’s season opener for both teams, falling 69-65.

Rob Keys led Marshalltown with 20 points, while Joe Scott posted a double-double of 17 points and 21 rebounds. Mekki Sisk finished with 13 points.

Demtrus Johnson had 18 points to pace Highland, while Ramean Hinton had 13 points and 13 boards. Gonzalo Basterrechea added 12 points, including two critical free throws and a layup down the stretch for the Cougars.

MCC was unable to overcome 12-for-21 shooting from the free-throw line and 18 turnovers in its season debut.

The Tigers are back in action this weekend at the Iowa/Missouri Challenge hosted by Indian Hills in Ottumwa. MCC faces State Fair CC on Friday at 3 p.m. and Three Rivers CC on Saturday at 1 p.m.