New Hanover extends road winning streak to eight

By Team Reports Jan 31, 2024, 5:12pm

Recap: New Hanover Wildcats vs. Kinston Vikings

The New Hanover Wildcats put another one in the bag on Saturday to keep their perfect season alive. They enjoyed a cozy 64-50 victory over Kinston. Given New Hanover's advantage in MaxPreps' North Carolina basketball rankings (they are ranked fifth, while the Vikings are ranked 98th), the result wasn't entirely unexpected.

Nolan Billings was his usual excellent self, dropping a double-double on 22 points and 11 rebounds. As a matter of fact, that's the most points he has scored all season. Zeus Batts was another key contributor, scoring 11 points along with five steals.

New Hanover pushed their record up to 18-0 with that win, which was their eighth straight on the road dating back to last season. As for Kinston, their defeat dropped their record down to 14-4.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. New Hanover will take on the Pirates at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday. As for Kinston, they will be playing at home against the Panthers at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Hopefully East Duplin focused on turnovers this week since the team gave up 30 on Friday.