Pioneers Withstand Late Rally to Top Cougars
By Nate Bingham | Jan 6, 2026 9:39 PM
The Mooresville Pioneers earned a hard-fought victory over Bloomington North on Friday night, using a fast start and late defensive stops to hold on for the win. Mooresville jumped out early, setting the tone on the defensive end by forcing turnovers on Bloomington North’s first five possessions. That energy quickly turned into offense, as senior Chris Thompson-Moore poured in 19 of his game-high 35 points in the first half to fuel a 24–17 first-quarter advantage and a 44–35 lead at the break. Bloomington North responded after halftime, turning up the defensive pressure and disrupting the Pioneers’ rhythm. The Cougars trimmed what had been a game-high 17-point deficit down to just two early in the fourth quarter. Mooresville, however, showed poise down the stretch, coming together for several key defensive stops and timely baskets to close out the win. The Pioneers placed three players in double figures and were efficient offensively, shooting 52% from the field, 48% from three-point range, and 64% at the free-throw line. Mooresville also recorded 13 assists on 31 made field goals. Bloomington North matched the Pioneers’ shooting percentages (51% overall, 48% from three, 64% at the line) and also had three players score in double figures. The Cougars controlled the glass with 28 rebounds, including 14 on the offensive end, while Mooresville finished with 19 rebounds, seven of them offensive. Mooresville now turns its attention to a Mid-State road showdown against the Franklin Grizzly Cubs.













