TERRA CEIA – It’s a hard truth.

And Terra Ceia Christian School reminded Tarheel Independent Conference newcomer Northeast Academy here Monday night.

During a 62-59 come-from-behind win at Terra Ceia, the Knights sent word that they are the defending TIC champions until further notice.

Both teams entered Monday night’s matchup undefeated in league play and the Eagles stood 9-2 overall, but it was the Knights who used a balance attack to pull off the victory.

Northeast rolled out to an early 17-7 advantage in the first quarter, but couldn’t hold the advantage.

Kyle Van Essendelft hit a pair of three pointers in the second while Jonathan Harris added a triple of his own to help Terra Ceia grab a 30-29 lead at the intermission.

The Knights continued to pull away in the third, outscoring Northeast 14-12.

Phillip Vander Weit led the way for Terra Ceia with 16 points while Hendrick Van Dorp had 13.

Rich Edwards’ 13 points led Northeast. Buddy Duke, Tyler Davis and Lance Jenkins each added 10 points for the Eagles.

The Knights improved to 7-6 overall and 4-0 inside the TIC while Northeast dropped to 3-1 in the league.

Terra Ceia (62): Phillip Vander Weit – 16, Hendrick Van Dorp – 13, K. Van Essendelft – 9, J. Harris – 9, B. Van Staldiunen – 8, D. Joyner – 7

Northeast (59): Rich Edwards – 13, Buddy Duke – 10, Lance Jenkins – 10, Tyler Davis – 10, B. McLean – 8, B. Barrett – 3, McLawhorn – 3, D. Pinnix – 2