Game 2 on the day after an exciting Game 1 in the books, Winston Salem Christian Regional and Combine Regional went to battle for a chance to move on and play Thursday night. WS Christian Regional came out strong early from three from 2025 Darnerian Gibson, but Combine was able to answer back. Getting out in transition, mixing it up offensively, and clamping down defensively, Combine Regional was able to claim an 18-8 first-quarter lead. Second quarter though, WS Christian Regional started to chip away behind the play of 2026 Jaire Richburg, as Combine Regional led 30-28 at halftime. 2025 Yohan Gutierrez led the way for Combine, while Richburg and company used a balanced attack.
In the second half, the energy certainly didn't let up for either team, but it was Combine Regional that was able to answer the bell. They started to play more physical, shots started to fall, and they just played with more energy as they were able to build upon their lead late. Though WS Christian started to fight back, Combine was able to answer again eventually building their lead to double digits midway through fourth quarter. Combine was able to hold onto that lead and eventually secure the win, and move on to the next round.
Final: Combine Regional 68 – WS Christian Regional 58
Stats:
Combine: Clinton Efinda 22, Jacob Brandly 13, Yohan Gutierrez 11, Dylan Craven 9
WS: Darnerian Gibson 17, Jaire Richburg 12, CJ Vaughn 7
Standouts:
2023 Clinton Efinda (Combine): The UMBC commit started out a little slow but started to showcase his physicality in a big way as the game went on. Efinda simply can overmatch opponents with his frame and strength, outworking opponents on the boards, finishing through contact, and putting a few players on posters as well. Just can outwork opponents.
2025 Darnerian Gibson (WS Christian): Gibson was a big part into why his team was right there throughout the game. Gibson has been known for his playmaking and point guard mentality, but it was his outside shooting that was the name of the game in this one. Hitting multiple threes and showing his range, he was big for his team in this game.
2024 Jacob Brandly (Combine): Once again, his name pops up on the standout list and it is because of how he is sued, how he can operate on the court, and his ability to take advantage of his matchup. Brandly was effective with his ability to step out, hitting several big shots in this game, but he also has a fluid feel, makes smart decisions, and works within the offense.
