The Weddington Warriors are undefeated in the Southern Carolina 3A conference (11-5 overall), after a 58-49 win at home over the Cuthbertson Cavaliers. Aggressive play, and a highly accurate bench, pushed the Warriors through a first-half deficit into a dominant second-half performance. Free throw consistency and late turnovers secured Weddington’s lead, as the Cavaliers attempted to keep pace with the Warriors’ upbeat play style, resulting in several fouls at key moments late in the game.

Both teams struggled to score effectively as the game began, leaving the score at 9-5 by the end of the first. Weddington’s ability to make three-point shots, as the first half came to a close, kept them in the game after several missed attempts put the Cavaliers out ahead. Cuthbertson’s consistent and methodical game plan was eventually overrun by Weddington’s drive to score, and a deep bench that maintained constant momentum.

Weddington’s second-half success was earned largely by a sophomore force, with 36 of the Warriors’ 58 points dropping at the hands of sophomore players. The team was led throughout the night by sophomore point guard Chase Lowe. Despite shooting well below his average from the field, Lowe managed to earn five assists and 10 points, eight of which came from successful trips to the free-throw line. Lowe’s defensive efforts late in the game played a major role in Weddington’s win as well. He earned 14 rebounds and four steals at key moments, allowing Weddington to work the clock, stifling Cuthbertson’s attempt at a comeback.

Scoring efforts for Weddington were led by sophomore guard Kyle Frazier, who earned 17 points for the Warriors on Friday. Frazier earned six of those points from beyond the arc, and 5 at the free-throw line. Sophomore guard A. J. Cook added to the scoring effort with three made shots from long range. Senior guard Owen Van Gundy added 10 points on the night, including two three-pointers.

The Warriors will meet Cuthbertson again in their last regular season game on February 14. Weddington will continue conference play on Friday, January 17, against the 4-11 Piedmont Panthers. The Panthers are the only SCC team that Weddington has yet to play.