New Bern: 24-14-13-17: 68
West Carteret: 19-21-6-20: 66
Top Scorers:
New Bern: Terry Riggins 21pts, AJ Scott 19pts, Shelby Cherry 8pts
West Carteret: Jack Bell 22pts, Larry Tootle 17pts, Javontae Barrie 12pts
It was a great matchup out east, as West Carteret travelled to take on New Bern in what ended up being a thriller. New Bern was able to get out to an early lead, led by 2027 Terry Riggins but West Carteret’s guard play of 2026 Jack Bell and 2026 Larry Tootle allowed West Carteret to hold a narrow 2-point halftime lead, 40-38. 2029 AJ Scott got going in the third as New Bern was able to regain control but once again, West Carteret battled back. It was the 3-ball that got going late from Javontae Barrie and company that allowed the Patriots to hold a lead in the final minutes. But, much like the entire night, New Bern had one last run led by Riggins as they were able to eventually tie it up with two key defensive plays at 66. With just under 15 seconds to go in the game, 2026 Shelby Cherry made one last play, creating and driving, eventually finding his way to the basket and scoring as time expired, giving New Bern the 68-66 thrilling victory.
Standouts/ Notes:
New Bern
- 2027 Terry Riggins, a 6’5 prospect, was the player of the game in this one. Time after time, he was able to attack off the bounce and get downhill, finishing well at the basket or getting to the line. Though he did hit some shots from outside, his defensive presence late with two key steals and his ability to attack out in the open floor was the difference in the game.
- 2029 AJ Scott is going to be a name you will want to learn about. The 6’5 freshman has the tools and confidence to be a big-time player here in North Carolina, and he gave you glimpses of that in this game. Tremendous length and wingspan, athletic and finishes at the rim, attacks well off the bounce… there is a lot to like and he should only continue to improve with his consistency from outside. I believe he is going to be a name high-major schools will want to check out.
West Carteret
- I absolutely enjoyed watching 2026 Jack Bell tonight, as the 5’11 guard played with energy, a non-stop motor, and was so much fun to watch with the ball in his hands. Though a smaller guard, his ability to move without the ball, hunt or create his own shot, and ability to make plays off the bounce were impressive, as eh scored from all over the floor. Quite impressive with his play throughout.
- 2026 Larry Tootle was another senior guard who really stepped up, especially in the first half. He got things going with his ability to knock down shots from the perimeter, but also showed a tremendous burst of speed to get by defenders, penetrate and attack in transition, and find ways to score getting downhill. He really stepped up for his team in this game.