One of the best games of the nightcap on Saturday, Canon looked to bounce back against a very good Piedmont Classical team. Each team traded blows but Cannon seemed to gain the early edge but Piedmont Classical responded really well to eventually take the lead in the second half.
The length and energy from the Bobcats really stood out in the first half. Piedmont Classical attacked the paint and used their wingspan to get ton the boards or finish around the rim. They were able to get Cannon in trouble as well with their defensive presence. But Cannon still is an experienced team and they had plays really step up and hit some big shots to counter.
DJ Nix was the story in the first half for Cannon with 16 points and 8 rebounds, while Jaden Bradley chipped in nine. Piedmont Classical's balance on offense was the name of the game, having 10 players that scored.
Halftime: Cannon 40 – Piedmont Classical 35
It continued to stay pretty close for much of the third and fourth quarter but Cannon still held a small edge for most of the second half. But Piedmont Classical, one thing they will not do is they won't give up and down late, they had one more run in them.
It ended up being the biggest run they needed. Piedmont continued to attack and get to the line and eventually, Jamarii Thomas took a 1-point lead with six seconds left on a tough And-1 finish. Cannon, just like last night, had once last chance but DJ Nix, who performed incredibly in the game, hit the back iron for another heartbreaking loss.
Piedmont finished with three players in double figures and shot 52 percent in the second half. Cannon played well, shooting 47 percent from the floor but fell short late to secure the win.
Final: Piedmont Classical 74 – Cannon 73
Stats:
Piedmont: Jamarii Thomas 16pts/ Trent McIntyre 14pts/ Jalen Joiner 10pts
Cannon: DJ Nix 24pts, 14rebs/ Jaden Bradley 15pts/ Elijah Ormiston 10pts