Snipers Remain Undefeated with Win Over Blue Jackets

The Gastonia Snipers continued their strong start to the season Sunday afternoon, pulling away in the fourth quarter to defeat the Charlotte Blue Jackets 126–119 at Southview Recreation Center.Gastonia set the tone early, opening the game with a dominant first quarter. Behind aggressive offense and strong rebounding, the Snipers jumped out to a 32–15 lead after the opening period. Charlotte responded in the second quarter, erupting for 36 points to trim the deficit and pull within five at halftime as Gastonia held a narrow 56–51 advantage. The Blue Jackets continued to apply pressure in the third quarter, matching Gastonia’s pace offensively and keeping the game within striking distance. Charlotte outscored the Snipers 34–28 in the period, cutting the deficit to just one point heading into the final quarter with Gastonia clinging to an 84–83 lead. With the game hanging in the balance, the Snipers delivered their best stretch of the afternoon in the fourth quarter. Gastonia poured in 42 points in the final frame, creating separation late to secure the seven-point victory. Leading the way for the Snipers was Glenn Bynum (6'4''-SG -2002, college: Coker) Jr., who recorded a dominant double-double performance with 26 points and 16 rebounds while shooting 10-for-20 from the field and knocking down six three-pointers. Keandre Marion (6'0''-PG) also delivered a huge night, finishing with 32 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists on an efficient 15-of-26 shooting performance. Lonell Martin Jr. added 21 points, including five three-pointers, while Jervon Pressley (6'8''-F/C-1992, college: Hampton, agency: BIG) contributed 19 points and 10 rebounds to give Gastonia four players scoring at least 19 points. Curtis Withers (6'8''-F-1984, college: Charlotte) chipped in 12 points on an impressive 5-for-6 shooting performance, helping the Snipers maintain offensive balance throughout the game. As a team, Gastonia shot 48.5% from the field and controlled the glass with 61 total rebounds, including 45 defensive boards, helping them limit second-chance opportunities and fuel their transition offense. Charlotte was led by Deon Berrien (6'6''-PF-1999, college: UNCP, agency: Interperformances), who scored 32 points and grabbed 15 rebounds, while Kenny Hairston added 31 points and Montrel Goldston (6'4''-F) contributed 26 points and 12 rebounds in a strong effort for the Blue Jackets. Despite shooting over 80% from the free throw line, Charlotte struggled from the field overall, shooting 37%, which ultimately proved costly down the stretch. Gastonia’s explosive fourth quarter proved to be the difference, as the Snipers closed out the contest with timely scoring and strong rebounding to secure the 126–119 victory.
Courtesy of: ECBL