The North Iredell Holiday Tournament saw a flurry of action across both the boys’ and girls’ brackets, culminating in two thrilling championship games.
Lady Ravens Soar to Victory
The Rocky River Lady Ravens, known for their aggressive, “bully ball” style, showcased their dominance against the host North Iredell Raiders. The game was a fast-paced affair from the outset, with both teams trading baskets early on. North Iredell narrowly edged ahead in the first quarter, 11-10.
However, the second quarter belonged to Rocky River. Two timely three-pointers ignited their offense, giving them a 22-19 lead at halftime. The third quarter saw the Ravens truly take control, extending their advantage significantly. While the Raiders staged a late rally, the Lady Ravens held firm, securing a 55-47 victory.
North Iredell’s #3 gave a valiant effort, but Rocky River’s #22 proved to be a force to be reckoned with, earning MVP honors for her impactful performance. The Lady Ravens’ coach, known for her fiery passion and unwavering support for her players, undoubtedly played a crucial role in their success.
Mooresville Outlasts Statesville in a Classic Contest
The boys’ championship game between Mooresville and Statesville was a true battle of titans. The atmosphere was electric, reminiscent of classic rivalries. Statesville sought redemption after a significant loss to Mooresville earlier in the season.
The first quarter saw a back-and-forth exchange, with both teams showcasing their offensive firepower. Mooresville gained a slight edge, but Statesville remained close on their heels. The second quarter saw Mooresville extend their lead, but Statesville’s relentless pursuit kept the game within reach.
The third quarter witnessed Mooresville pull away, seemingly gaining control of the game. However, Statesville refused to surrender, launching a furious comeback attempt in the fourth quarter. The tension mounted as Statesville chipped away at the lead, bringing the score within a single possession.
Ultimately, Mooresville held their nerve, making key plays down the stretch to secure a thrilling 70-67 victory.
Mooresville’s Nolan Ericson, Christian Wilson, Eian Bailey, and Dylan Clark played pivotal roles in their team’s success, while Statesville’s MJ Gladden, Caleb Tillman, and Kevin Bryant provided a formidable challenge.
The game showcased the exceptional coaching abilities of both Coach Moore and Coach Nesbit, as they masterfully navigated the ebb and flow of the intense contest.
A Tale of Two Victories
The North Iredell Holiday Tournament proved to be a memorable event, showcasing the exceptional talent and competitive spirit of the participating teams. Both the Rocky River Lady Ravens and the Mooresville boys’ team emerged victorious, leaving their mark on the tournament and setting the stage for exciting seasons ahead.
Mooresville Now wishes to acknowledge Kyle Z for his valuable contributions of information to this story.
