The Newton Eagles jumped out to a 16-4 lead Tuesday night and went on to defeat Effingham, 66-52.

The host Eagles increased their lead to 34-16 at halftime.

Caden Nichols led Newton with 27 points and topped the 1,000-point plateau in the process. Dylan Gier added 17, as the Eagles improved to 13-5 on the season.

The Hearts had two players in double figures. KJ Kellams scored 12 points and Hayden Wendling had 11.

The Hearts are now 2-17 on the season. They will travel to Taylorville on Thursday night.