Basketball Recap: Jordan Crowder's Big Game Can't Quite Lead Central over Monroe

Central was not able to break out of their rough patch on Friday as the team picked up their fourth straight defeat dating back to last season. They were two points away from ending the streak, but they lost a 56-54 heartbreaker at the hands of the Monroe Redhawks. The Eagles were not able to make up for their loss to the Redhawks from their previous meeting back in December of 2023.

Central lost despite a true team effort on offense. The best among them was Jordan Crowder, who shot 57% from the field to rack up 20 points and seven rebounds. Tazhir Webber was another key player, going 5-for-10 on his way to 12 points and five assists.

Monroe's win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Jayden Caudle, who shot 56% from the field en route to 14 points. Those 14 points gave Caudle a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Ashad Staton, who posted eight points and 11 boards.

Central's defeat dropped their record down to 0-3. As for Monroe, the win got them back to even at 1-1.

Coming up, Central will look to takes advantage of their home court for the first time this season as they takes on Union Academy at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. As for Monroe, they will venture away from home to take on West Mecklenburg at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday.