The Bulldogs showcased a more efficient shooting display, converting 47.7% of their field goal attempts (31-65). This was driven largely by a strong perimeter presence, as they made 14-18 from behind the arc. Leading the Bulldogs in scoring was
Jaqwan Baylor, who provided a dominant performance with 23 points, converting 9 out of 14 shots from the field. Baylor also led all players in rebounds with 14, highlighting his all-around impact on both ends. Traven Norwood chipped in with 15 points, showing versatility by hitting 6 of 11 from the field, including a three-pointer, while also contributing three assists and a block.
Amarion McCrea delivered a noteworthy performance for Pitt, adding 14 points, three steals, and two assists. His ability to disrupt Louisburg’s passing lanes played a crucial role in the Bulldogs’ defensive scheme. The Bulldogs utilized an aggressive defensive approach, generating 12 steals and forcing 18 turnovers from the Hurricanes.
On the opposite end, Louisburg Community College struggled with their shooting accuracy, hitting only 35.8% (24-67) from the field. Despite this, they managed to stay competitive through a strong rebounding effort, especially on the offensive end, grabbing 19 offensive boards.
Xavier Booker was a standout for the Hurricanes, scoring a team-high 22 points on a commendable 10-16 shooting performance, and contributing 11 rebounds.
Ronald Bridges Jr added 14 points and 4 steals, while effectively facilitating from the backcourt with 4 assists.
The Bulldogs also outperformed the Hurricanes in fast-break transitions, thanks to high-energy plays from Clarence Burton, who contributed 7 points, 3 steals, and 4 assists, emphasizing a complete effort on both sides of the ball. Pitt’s physicality was further illustrated by their ability to garner 12 steals, which helped maintain the offensive momentum and kept Louisburg on the back foot.
In the paint, the Bulldogs’ defensive discipline enabled them to register 6 blocks, significantly hindering the Hurricanes’ ability to convert their opportunities inside. Conversely, the Bulldogs effectively limited their own turnovers to 18, a figure that matched Louisburg’s ball-handling errors but kept them from conceding easy transition points.
This clash was a testimonial to strategic play and stamina, with Pitt’s shooting efficiency and relentless defense being pivotal. Each team recorded 12 steals, indicating a high-octane game with defensive pressures dictating the flow. The matchup was as much about the players’ endurance and skill as it was their tactical acumen, with both coaches managing the tempo through defensive plays and disciplined rotations.
With the season coming to a close in less than 3 week the Hurricanes are in danger of not getting a first round bye in the Region X tournament. As the Hurricanes fall to 6-7 in Region X standing just one game up on the Yetis from Cleveland, Which make the game on Feb 22 mother meaningful to the Hurricanes.
Next home game: Camp 2:00pm @ Roger G Taylor Arena.
