BANCROFT - North Gem fought off a late comeback by Raft River to prevail, 54-50, and pick up its first win Wednesday.

The Cowboys led 41-27 entering the final period and padded their lead to 18 with four minutes to go before Raft River made a late charge. North Gem never surrendered the lead, though, and held on for the win.

"We maybe let down a little bit," North Gem coach Ken Christensen said. "They just made it interesting."

Shawn Banks scored a game-high 17 points, while Austin Wuttke had 14 points, four assists and four steals.

North Gem (1-4) next hosts Cokeville (Wyo.) today.