Vikings Run Through The Swamp
Last years North Lenoir versus Kinston game at the Swamp ended with the Hawk fans storming the court in victory.
The Vikings did not forget.
Kinston High School extended its impressive winning streak, clinching their 13th victory in the last 15 games. The Vikings, in a show of sheer dominance, routed their crosstown rivals North Lenoir with a staggering 78-36 scoreline.
This triumph wasn't just another win; it was a statement. The Vikings now boast an imposing 36-3 record over the Hawks in their past 39 encounters. However, it's worth noting that North Lenoir had started to tip the scales, splitting their last four games 2-2 against Kinston. This context only adds to the magnitude of Kinston's latest victory.
Kinston's journey to 13-3 overall and a perfect 6-0 in conference play was marked by an explosive performance, while the defeat left North Lenoir at a 6-11 overall and 2-4 in the conference.
The Hawks initially kept pace, trailing just 13-6 in the first quarter, but Kinston's Tyreek Copper was about to change the game's complexion. Copper, in a remarkable display of athleticism, unleashed a series of four dunks in a span of four minutes, igniting a 24-2 run for the Vikings. By halftime, Kinston had established a commanding 46-20 lead, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Copper, who finished with 18 points, was a force to be reckoned with, and he wasn't alone in his high-flying heroics. Keyshawn Herring matched Copper's tally with 18 points, contributing three spectacular dunks. Together, they combined for a whopping 36 points and seven dunks. Supporting this dynamic duo were Khalid Sanders with 13 points, Khalil Sanders adding 8, Jamarion Washington with 7, and Camir Fields rounding it off with 6 points.
On the other side, Genesis Wiggins led North Lenoir with 14 points, followed by Malachia Ramsey's 8-point contribution.
Post-game, Kinston Coach Perry Tyndall reflected on the intense atmosphere, "Coming over here, it is a tough environment, a great high school basketball environment to play in. You're going to have to match that energy. Throw the records out; it's a rivalry game."
When asked about Tyreek's electrifying first-half performance, Tyndall couldn't hide his admiration. "How electric was he in the first half? Just incredible plays, active on defense, and it translates when you're aggressive. His instincts are so good; he reads the next pass, and gosh, it was pretty fun to watch."
Tyreek himself summed up his mindset, "I was feeling energetic. Rivalry games can go either way; it doesn't even matter about the record. I knew I had to come in here and play my hardest."
The team's chemistry, a blend of seniority and youthful exuberance, was also a topic of conversation. "It's fun; our connection is really good. At practice, we go our hardest, and it translates. One thing about this group, we are going to play hard," Tyreek added, highlighting the seamless integration of the team's 5 underclassmen with the 8 upperclassmen.
Kinston rolls back into action this Friday night as they travel to Deep Run to face South Lenoir.
