Because of the well-executed half court defense displayed by West Johnston, East Wake was not fully able to test that logic as the Warriors were unable to get close to the rim for the better part of a 56-50 West Johnston victory.

The Wildcats threw different defenses at the Warriors all night, as East Wake was unable to get the ball inside and instead settled for outside jumpers. The Warriors did not see a lay-up or uncontested shot for three-and-a-half quarters.

"We kept changing defenses on them," said West Johnston coach Shelly Marsh, "We started in the 1-3-1 and then went to the 1-2-2 and we went 2-3 on them trying to keep them confused."

Midway through the fourth quarter with the game well in hand, the Wildcats went to their bench to give their young reserves some much-needed experience. In a matter of a couple minutes, West Johnston's 18-point lead was cut by more than half as East Wake mounted a ferocious charge with an 11-0 run.

"We're a very young team so we'll have our ups and downs," Marsh added. "When you're young and talented it's better than being young and having no talent."

Coach Marsh put the starters back in to stem the tide and preserve the win. They were able to accomplish both goals, as the Warriors were never able to get the lead less than six points.

The Wildcats jumped out to a quick lead and didn't let up for the remainder of the first half.

The two-pronged attack of Ben Jacobs and Mark Parker was enough to carry the load offensively for the Wildcats in the first half. The scoring tandem led the way with 10 points a piece over the first two quarters which saw West Johnston pull away for a 28-19 halftime lead.

In addition to preventing good shots for the Warriors, the Wildcats were able to corral the misses as they controlled the boards on both ends of the court.

Ben Jacobs led the team with 10 rebounds and Jacob McNeill added nine of his own.

"Ben comes to play every night," commented Marsh, "He's a bulldog."

Jacobs finished with a double-double tallying 16 points as well.

"I was also really proud of Jacob McNeill," Marsh said. "He played tough defense especially on the off side creating problems for them trying to get into the middle."

The win moved the Wildcats to 3-7 overall and 2-1 in the Greater Neuse River Conference.