Hawks' offense explodes for 19 runs to dominate Tigers, 19-2

The North Lenoir Hawks came into their game against the James Kenan Tigers looking to build momentum after a week off. There was no rust to knock off for the Hawks, scoring 19 runs to win decisively over the Tigers.

“It was really big after a week off,” said Head Coach Cam Sherrer. “To come out explosive like that is a good sign.”

Junior Whit Johnson was on the mound for the Hawks to start the game. Johnson would get out of trouble in the top of the first inning, only giving up one run to the Tigers. The Hawks would jump to a huge lead early, scoring six runs in the bottom of the first inning—highlighted by a three-run home run from senior Carter Chadwick.

“It allows them to go out and just pitch and be able to execute,” said Sherrer.

The bullpen was in full effect against the Tigers. The Hawks used four pitchers throughout the game. Senior Garret Byrd, junior Whit Johnson, senior Mason Sasser and senior Wriston Honeycutt all pitched for the Hawks. After the first inning, the defense held firm and didn’t allow another run.

North Lenoir improved to 16-8 overall and 6-5 in conference play with the win. The dominant performance also helped the Hawks climb to No. 18 in the latest NCHSAA 2A East RPI rankings, positioning them inside the playoff cut with one regular-season game remaining.

That game—a Thursday night showdown against rival South Lenoir—could prove vital, not just for conference seeding but potentially for hosting rights in the opening round of the playoffs. North Lenoir has already faced South Lenoir once this season, and a win on May 1 at home would be a statement to cap the regular season.

After going 5-1 to open April, the Hawks endured a three-game slide, dropping tight contests to East Duplin and Rosewood before a surprising loss to Southern Wayne. But with two straight wins to close out the month—by a combined score of 26-5—North Lenoir appears to have righted the ship.