Moving on to Game 2 on Day 1, First Flight traveled from the Outer Banks to come to Raleigh to participate, as they went up against a strong Northwood team that had high aspirations this year. Coming right out of the gate, one got a feeling of what these teams were looking to do offensively, with First Flight continuing to show their ability to stretch the floor and knock down shots from three. Northwood was able to use their size and get others going early on, as they took an early 23-11 lead after the first quarter.
In the second quarter, First Flight started to get going from outside, eventually hitting six 3-pointers in the first half but they still weren’t able to slow down the balanced attack from Northwood, as six players got into the scoring column with Max Frazier leading the way. The size and ability to create turnovers and turn them into points helped Northwood get out to a 43-27 halftime lead.
Northwood was able to maintain its lead throughout the third quarter, eventually leading 65-47 by the end of the third. The size of Northwood started to take its toll in the second half, with Northwood being able to get others into the game. Maintaining its double-digit lead, Northwood was able to come away with an impressive victory, 77-57, on Day 1 at the John Wall Invitational.
Final: Northwood Pittsboro 77 – First Flight 57
Northwood: Drake Powell 16pts, 12rebs/ Max Frazier 13pts/ Frederico Whitaker 13pts
First Flight: Mason Dobie 14pts/ Carson Hahne 13pts/ Eli Hawk 11pts