Men's Basketball: A Week of Close Contests

A Week of Close Contests

Cleveland Community College's basketball team faced a grueling week of games from November 13 to November 20, 2024. The team displayed resilience, impressive rebounding, and balanced scoring, battling through a mix of wins and losses.

November 13, 2024: Victory Over Caldwell Community College

In a nail-biting contest, Cleveland edged Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute, 86-85. Despite trailing at halftime (46-41), Cleveland's strong second-half performance secured the win. The team dominated the boards with 47 rebounds compared to Caldwell's 38.

• Key Players:
  • Kyler Harris: Led the scoring with 18 points, contributing consistently in critical moments.
  • Tre Crite: Pulled down 13 rebounds and added 11 points, showcasing his interior presence.
  • Junior Montgomery: Recorded a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds.

Cleveland's aggressive play earned them 42 free-throw attempts, converting 28, which proved vital in the close victory.

November 16, 2024: Beating Central Carolina Community College

Cleveland secured another close win, defeating Central Carolina Community College 76-72. The team's rebounding strength again played a key role, grabbing 49 rebounds compared to Central Carolina's 43.

• Top Performers:
  • Kelan Flowers: Scored a team-high 18 points, including three 3-pointers.
  • Tre Crite: Dominated inside with 15 rebounds and 12 points.
  • Elijah Burnett: Contributed 11 points and four assists, providing stability on both ends.

Though Cleveland struggled with outside shooting, hitting just 5 of 22 three-point attempts, their effort on the boards and defensive stops sealed the victory.

November 20, 2024: Narrow Loss to Gaston College

Cleveland's week ended with a tough 79-73 loss to Gaston College. Tied at halftime (36-36), the game remained close, but Cleveland fell short in the final minutes.

• Highlights:
  • Tre Crite: Continued his outstanding form with 17 points and 15 rebounds.
  • Brendan Bailey: Provided a spark off the bench with 12 points and two three-pointers.
  • Jahmir Brown: Added 10 points and four assists, helping keep the offense organized.

Cleveland matched Gaston in rebounds and had a solid shooting performance, but Gaston's efficient three-point shooting made the difference.

Takeaways

Cleveland demonstrated grit and potential throughout the week, highlighted by strong rebounding and standout performances from players like Tre Crite and Kelan Flowers. With a focus on fine-tuning their free-throw and perimeter shooting, Cleveland has the tools to turn these close games into a consistent winning streak. Their ability to compete against tough opponents bodes well for the season ahead.