The day continued down in Matthews, NC as Gaston Christian took on Cardinal Newman, a team from South Carolina looking to make a mark. Two intriguing teams that certainly came to play in this one. 2024 Jahseem Felton had been playing well and came out strong in this one to help lead his team to an early 19-16 first-quarter lead but 2022 Gerald Gary also had a strong start for Cardinal Newman. It continued to be a tight battle for much of the second quarter as well, with both teams trading baskets. But the defensive pressure started to pick up for Gaston Christian, ultimately turning turnovers into points. A late run before halftime, Gaston Christian led 34-28.

Second half, Gaston Christian was able to continue to expand their lead behind the shooting of 2024 Joe Rhyne and the play of 2024 Jahseem Felton, both really spreading the floor and scoring in a variety of ways. 2024 Evan Carter was strong for Cardinal Newman in the third quarter, while Gerald Gary continued to play well in the fourth. But Gaston Christian was clicking on all cylinders in the second half, eventually securing a 73-65 victory.

GC: Jahseem Felton 22pts, 9rebs, 6asts / Joe Rhyne 15pts (5 3’s) / Isaiah Tate 12pts
CN: Gerald Gary 26pts/ Evan Carter 12pts, 12rebs / Jordan Frazier 9pts, 4rebs, 4asts

POB’s Eye Catchers:
Gaston Christian:
2024 Jahseem Felton: Felton has been playing at a high level as of late, really showing just how talented the sophomore is on the court. Really making an impact in an array of ways, playing strong, finishing through contact, showing off his perimeter feel, filling up the stat sheet on the boards, and finding his teammates. Strong showing once again from the young man.

2024 Joe Rhyne: When Rhyne is clicking from deep, he can really open up this offense and stretch the defense. That is what he did in this game, knocking down five 3-pointers in rhythm. He did a great job in getting to his spots and making himself available to find his shot.

Cardinal Newman:
2022 Gerald Gary: Gary was incredibly consistent from start to finish in this game, coming out strong, knocking down his jumper from multiple levels, and continued to play with a great motor and be the catalyst offensively. Really stored in a variety of ways, showcased good athleticism, and finished well over defenders on his way to 26 points.