Basketball Game Preview: East Columbus Gators vs. South Columbus Stallions

East Columbus is 8-2 against South Columbus since January of 2020 and they'll have a chance to extend that success on Friday. The East Columbus Gators will host the South Columbus Stallions at 6:00 p.m. Given that both suffered a loss in their last games, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this match.

East Columbus is probably headed into the game with a chip on their shoulder considering East Bladen just ended the team's three-game winning streak two weeks ago. They took a blow against the Eagles, falling 63-30. The Gators were in a tough position after the first half, with the score already sitting at 39-12.

Malia Graham

Blocked Shots

12/20/24 vs East Bladen	5
12/13/24 @ Red Springs	5
12/09/24 vs Jones	2
12/06/24 @ South Brunswick	2

The losing side was boosted by Malia Graham, who went 6 of 7 on her way to 12 points along with six boards and five blocks. She has been hot recently, having posted two or more blocks the last four times she's played.

Even though they lost, East Columbus smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 12 offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least nine offensive boards in 36 consecutive contests dating back to last season.

Meanwhile, South Columbus scored the most points they've had this season on Thursday, but it wasn't enough. They were just a bucket shy of victory and fell 54-53 to West Bladen. The Stallions have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

East Columbus' defeat dropped their record down to 5-3. As for South Columbus, their loss dropped their record down to 4-7.

Everything came up roses for East Columbus against South Columbus in their previous meeting back in February of 2024, as the squad secured a 69-24 victory. Does East Columbus have another victory up their sleeve, or will South Columbus turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.