Basketball Recap: Watauga Takes Down East Mecklenburg in a Playoff Battle

Watauga had already proven themselves in the regular season and they didn't miss a beat now that it's playoff time. They enjoyed a cozy 56-42 win over the East Mecklenburg Eagles on Tuesday.

Watauga got their victory on the backs of several key players, but it was Jace Blocker out in front who shot 64% from the field on his way to 17 points and six boards. The team also got some help courtesy of Cade Keller, who went 5-for-12 to rack up 17 points and five rebounds.

East Mecklenburg's loss came despite a true team effort with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Ahmari Hicks, who shot 50% from the field en route to 16 points. That was a full 38.1% of East Mecklenburg's points, marking the third time in a row Hicks has posted more than a third of the team's points. Jordan Buzzard was another key player, putting up eight points and three blocks.

Pioneers

Previous 6 Games (Home)

02/25/25 vs East Mecklenburg	56-42
02/14/25 vs Ashe County	70-43
02/04/25 vs Alexander Central	55-43
01/31/25 vs South Caldwell	80-61
01/22/25 vs Freedom	77-70
01/17/25 vs Hibriten	84-58

Watauga pushed their record up to 19-7 with the win, which was their sixth straight at home. As for East Mecklenburg, they have been struggling recently as they've lost three of their last four matchups. That's put a noticeable dent in their 15-11 record this season.

Watauga has already played their next game, an 80-77 victory against Mount Tabor on the 28th. East Mecklenburg does not have any more games scheduled as of now.