Late game mistakes doom Gaston College in Region 10 road defeat

Late game mistakes doomed Gaston College's basketball team on Friday night as the Rhinos lost 66-63 at Denmark Tech.

Gaston College, which fell to 7-11 overall and 0-5 in Region 10, had taken a 63-61 lead a minute to play.

But the Rhinos never scored again as the host Panthers scored on a 15-foot jumpshot, a driving layup and converted one of two free throws to close out the game.

Gaston College committed turnovers on two of their last three possessions that lead to Denmark Tech points.

"We've just got to find a way to win," Rhinos interim head coach Jermaine Williams said. "It's effort, heart, doing the little things, trusting one another and having fun with all of that going on."

Asil Hoyle (15 points, 3 assists), Judah Ravenell (13 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists), Kush Carter (11 points, 5 rebounds), Yarayah Evans (11 points, 5 rebounds) and Tyheim Love (9 points) led a balanced Gaston College attack.

The Rhinos trailed by as many as nine points in the first half and trailed 35-29 at halftime before rallying in the second half.

Gaston College took its first lead since early in the game at 52-51 and the late 63-61 lead on Carter's slam dunk was the next Rhinos' lead.

"Learning how to win is tough," Williams said. "We're in that phase. You hate to lose but true competitors should love the process. It's indeed a process.
"Time isn't showing to be on our side but we are being intentional to what it takes to win. Coaches are trying to lead that charge. The players need to have the utmost sense of urgency to win."

Gaston College and Denmark Tech (9-6, 2-4) on Sunday at 3 p.m. at Gastonia's Ashbrook High School in its next game.

"We are learning the hard way unfortunately but I am confident," Williams said. "We play again Sunday and we are looking to improve upon the mishaps today to help us be in a better position for the opportunity to win Sunday."