Kinston Girls Open Season with Dominant Victory Over Richlands

The Kinston girls’ basketball team made a statement in their season opener, defeating Richlands 54-16 in a commanding performance. The 38-point win is the Vikings’ largest margin of victory since February 6, 2021, when they defeated West Craven 66-21.

Kinston started strong, with seven different players contributing in the first quarter to build a 16-7 lead. The Vikings’ defensive intensity took center stage in the second quarter, holding the Wildcats to just two points and expanding their advantage to 30-9 at halftime.

The defensive effort only improved in the second half, as Kinston held Richlands to two points in the third quarter—both from free throws—and no baskets. Junior transfer Ariyona Willis, in her first game for Kinston after coming over from Wayne Prep, led the scoring with 14 points, including three three-pointers. Willis scored 11 of her points in the second half.

Other notable scorers for the Vikings included:

– **Aleah Hill**: 12 points

– **America Lloyd**: 6 points

– **J’Riyanna Edwards**: 6 points

– **Nashayla Mason**: 5 points

– **Madison Green**: 5 points

– **K’Niyah Whitfield**: 4 points

– **Zikiya Philya**: 2 points

Kinston’s offseason work was evident in their season-opening performance, particularly with the leadership of America Lloyd and Nashayla Mason. K’Niyah Whitfield, providing valuable minutes off the bench, showcased improved ball-handling and her trademark high-intensity defense.

“[Whitfield] can defend anybody out there on that basketball court, and she has the high motor to do it,” head coach Chris Bradshaw said after the game. “She had a good summer and a good offseason.”

When asked about areas for improvement, Bradshaw kept the focus on execution. “Make easy shots,” he said. “We missed a lot of easy shots. We’ve got to continue getting better and playing great team basketball.”

The Vikings, who finished 13-13 last season, appear poised to take a big step forward this year. Their next game is scheduled for December 3 at home against West Carteret.