Goose Creek — In a highly anticipated Lowcountry matchup between two of the area's top programs, No. 5 Goose Creek pulled off a statement victory over No. 3 Cane Bay, edging the visitors 51–44 Friday night.
The game lived up to the billing from the opening tip. Both teams traded physical possession after possession, but Goose Creek's balanced attack and timely defense made the difference down the stretch.
Game flow
First half: Cane Bay struck first with early aggression in the paint, but Goose Creek responded with efficient ball movement and perimeter shooting to keep the game close. The teams entered halftime within a possession.
Second half: Defense tightened for both squads, with each basket becoming harder earned. Goose Creek ramped up its defensive pressure in the fourth quarter, forcing key turnovers that turned into transition points.
Closing minutes: A couple of clutch baskets and free throws from Goose Creek sealed the margin. Cane Bay fought back and cut the deficit to single digits, but could not complete the comeback.