Second-quarter surge lifts Kinston past Greene Central in conference win

Kinston’s girls basketball team continued its dominance over Greene Central on Tuesday night, defeating the Rams 69-38 at home for its 29th straight win in the series. Greene Central’s last victory over Kinston came in 2008.

The game stayed competitive early, with Kinston holding a 14-12 edge after the first quarter, but the Vikings seized control in the second. A 25-point quarter allowed Kinston to open up a 39-22 halftime lead, and the margin continued to grow as the Vikings outscored Greene Central 16-6 in the third quarter.

Aleah Hill led Kinston with 15 points, while Nashayla Mason added 13 with four 3pt makes. K’niya Whitfield chipped in 10 points, providing a steady presence in the backcourt as the Vikings showcased their balance once again.

Greene Central was led by Jayce Russell, who finished with four points and 14 rebounds, while An’Nysha Wooten added 12 rebounds to go with two points. The Rams battled on the glass, but Kinston’s defensive pressure and scoring depth proved too much to overcome.

The win improved Kinston to 2-0 in conference play and 11-0 overall, keeping the Vikings atop the conference standings. Greene Central dropped to 1-1 in conference action and 8-6 on t