The Pinecrest Patriots's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Friday after their third straight loss. They took a 54-50 hit to the loss column at the hands of Hoke County. That's two games in a row now that Pinecrest has lost by exactly four points.
When it comes to explaining why Pinecrest lost, one person who can't be blamed is Elijah Melton. Despite the final result, he dropped a double-double on 12 points and 11 rebounds. Melton has been hot recently, having posted eight or more rebounds the last six times he's played. The team also got some help courtesy of Zymire Spencer, who scored 11 points along with five rebounds and three steals.
Even though they lost, Pinecrest smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 14 offensive rebounds. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Hoke County only pulled down seven offensive rebounds.
Jaylen Sturdivant was his usual excellent self, scoring 26 points along with two steals for Hoke County. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Sturdivant has scored all season. Braydon O.d mckoy was another key contributor, scoring ten points.
Pinecrest has traveled a rocky road recently, as they've lost five of their last six matchups, which put a noticeable dent in their 7-7 record this season. As for Hoke County, they have been performing well recently as they've won six of their last eight contests, which provided a nice bump to their 11-6 record this season.
Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Pinecrest will square off against Union Pines at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Union Pines is out to stop a three-game streak of losses at home. Hoke County's road trip will continue as they head out to face Scotland at 7:30 p.m. on January 26th.
