Colts compete among North Carolina's best in Wilson
Nov. 21—WILSON — The Hoop State 252 Tip-Off at the Greenfield School marked the beginning of basketball season for various N.C. High School Athletic Association teams across the state.
A two day, nine-game event celebrated high school basketball in North Carolina, bringing together high-profile recruits and some of the most successful programs in recent memory. Joining the field was one of the most talented teams in the N.C. Independent Schools Athletic Association, Henderson-based Crossroads Christian.
After a 4-0 start in rather dominating fashion to begin the 2022-23 campaign, the Colts were to face off against The Burlington School and First Flight, two of the best programs in the state.
In Friday night's matchup against the Spartans, Crossroads fell victim to the size and athleticism of Zion Walker and company. With a pressing defense that forced multiple turnovers and a plethora of tough shot attempts, the Colts were unable to overcome the early setback.
Trailing 40-17 at the break, the outside shooting heated up from Scottie Richardson's squad, as guards Shane Anthony and Sam Boyd trimmed the deficit to 18 in the third quarter.
Ultimately, the offensive firepower of The Burlington School was too much, as a 84-46 defeat handed Crossroads their first loss of the season.
Walker, a three-star recruit, caused problems for the Colts defense, pouring a in game-high 19 points and 12 rebounds in the Spartans' second win of the season.
There was little time to learn from the performance, as a Saturday matinee matchup with First Flight awaited.
Unfortunately, the result would mirror that of Friday night's non-conference matchup, as a 92-80 setback stretched the Colts' losing streak to two games.
Cutting into a 50-35 halftime deficit, Crossroads was able to remain in the game heading into the final frame, before falling in the neutral-site contest.
The sibling duo of Isaac and Mason Dobie caused problems for the Colts, combining for 46 of the Nighthawks' 92 points. Sophomore Mason tallied 25 points, while senior Isaac added on 21 points to lead First Flight to its first victory of the season.
Their success from the free throw line and beyond the arc powered them against one of the best 1A programs in the state.
With 20 made free throws and 14 three-pointers, their sharpshooting was an area of success in Wilson.
Two losses to quality programs that are one and two classifications higher than Crossroads mean little in the grand scheme of things, as they remain one of the favorites to win the 1A NCISAA state championship.
Now riding just their third losing streak since February of 2021, the Colts will receive a week of rest to recover and return to the drawing board.
A non-conference matchup in Granville County against Oxford Prep awaits, as the Colts will travel to face the Griffins on Nov. 28.
