Greene Central rolls, North Lenoir drops opener on Day 1 of Parker’s BBQ Christmas Tournament

Greene Central rolls, North Lenoir drops opener on Day 1 of Parker’s BBQ Christmas Tournament

Greene Central remained unbeaten while North Lenoir suffered a first-round loss on Day 1 of the Parker’s BBQ Christmas Tournament on Saturday.

North Lenoir (2-6) fell to J.H. Rose (4-2) 71-39 in its opening game. The Hawks struggled offensively from the start, scoring just 20 points in the first half and only six points in the third quarter.

J.H. Rose built an early advantage behind a 24-point first quarter and poured in 34 points in the second quarter to take a commanding 58-20 lead into halftime.

Cris Veal led North Lenoir with 11 points, all scored in the first half. Kalil Conner added seven points.

J.H. Rose was led by Kasyn Chase with 20 points. Javion Jordan finished with 11 points, while Jaleek Parson and Caleb Knight each added 10.

North Lenoir will face D.H. Conley (3-4) in a consolation matchup on Dec. 29 at 3:30 p.m.

In the nightcap, Greene Central (6-0) pulled away from Ayden-Grifton (8-2) for a 77-45 victory.

Ayden-Grifton held a 21-18 lead after the first quarter, but Greene Central seized momentum late in the second quarter. A 3-pointer by DJ Williams helped the Rams take a 34-32 lead into halftime, and Greene Central dominated the final three quarters, outscoring Ayden-Grifton 59-24.

Josh Cetnar led the Rams with 19 points. Kam Tyson scored 11 points, while DJ Williams added nine. Justin Mitchell, Sam Avent, and Nick Event each finished with eight points, and Trey Bynum chipped in seven.

Ayden-Grifton was led by Khimani Nelson with 17 points. Nygel Morgan added nine.

Greene Central will face South Central (5-2) on Dec. 29 at 6:30 p.m.