The Pender Patriots won a close one the last time they played, but unfortunately they suffered a serious change of fortune on Friday. They were the victim of a rough 67-41 defeat at the hands of East Bladen. The defeat unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Pender in their matchups with East Bladen: they've now lost eight in a row.
Despite the loss, Pender still got an impressive performance from Jamiah Johnson, who dropped a double-double on 26 points and ten steals. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Johnson has scored all season. The team also got some help courtesy of Jayda Tozour, who scored four points.
Leading East Bladen to victory were Laila Smith and NeNe Ward. Smith dropped a double-double on 17 points and ten rebounds, while Ward scored 25 points along with seven steals. Ward is crushing the steal category: she's posted at least two every time she's taken the court this season. Ariel Cromartie was another key contributor, scoring 12 points along with two steals.
Pender's defeat dropped their record down to 6-9. As for East Bladen, they pushed their record up to 16-3 with that victory, which was their third straight at home.
Pender will head out on the road to square off against Whiteville at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Whiteville will roll in looking for their fourth straight win, something Pender surely won't give up without a fight. As for East Bladen, they will head out on the road to take on West Columbus at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. East Bladen is facing West Columbus at the right time seeing as West Columbus is stuck on a 12-game losing streak.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
