The East Columbus Gators's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Wednesday after their third straight loss. They took a 53-38 bruising from East Bladen. While losing is never fun, East Columbus can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' North Carolina basketball rankings (they are ranked 554th, while East Bladen is ranked 276th).
Despite the loss, East Columbus had strong showings from Cainan Patrick, who dropped a double-double on 15 points and 13 rebounds, and Jaden Troy, who scored 11 points along with four steals. Patrick is on a roll when it comes to rebounds, as he's now pulled down eight or more in the last four games he's played.
East Columbus' loss dropped their record down to 3-6. As for East Bladen, they have been performing well recently as they've won five of their last six games, which provided a nice bump to their 7-4 record this season.
East Columbus will look to defend their home court on Friday against South Columbus at 7:30 p.m. South Columbus is hoping to put an end to a three-game streak of away losses. As for East Bladen, they will head out on the road to challenge Pender at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Pender is coming into the contest on a three-game losing streak.
