Fans got an early treat with a low-key, highly intriguing matchup between two North Carolina teams. Carmel Christian and Holly Springs battled it out to start the day at Greensboro and it was a physical matchup.
Both teams looked to stay aggressive, as Carmel Christian looked for their perimeter game and Holly Springs looked to power it inside. Holly Springs used their size with Dante Kiesenhofer and company, as Dante led the way with 12 points and 7 rebounds. The perimeter game of Justin Taylor, Ben Burnham, and Kenny Gwynn led the way with 19 of the 22 points for Carmel Christian, but they did struggle from 3 (3-for-14).
Holly Springs really attacked the boards but neither team could really break away in the first half.
Halftime: Holly Springs 25 – Carmel Christian 22
It was much of the same in the second half. Carmel Christian was able to create a little separation but Marcus Elliott hit two big three's to eventually tie the game at 48. Holly Springs gained a 2-point lead with seconds left when Kaleb Scott stepped up big with two free throws late, helping secure overtime in this matchup.
Carmel Christian slowed down the pace in overtime but Justin Taylor wasn't able to capitalize. With a few seconds remaining, Marcus Elliott was able to find Kaleb Scott for the tough lay-in at the buzzer, giving Holly Springs the big win to start the day off.
Final: Holly Springs 54 – Carmel Christian 52
Stats:
Holly Springs: Dante Kiesenhofer 19pts, 13rebs/ Max Roberton 8pts, 12rebs/ Kaleb Scott 10pts
Carmel Christian: Ben Burnham 15pts/ Justin Taylor 12pts/ Kenny Gwynn 11pts
