Mooresville Athletics

The Mooresville Pioneers hosted Southport on Friday night in sectional semi-final action but were unable to overcome a second-quarter surge, falling 61–53. The game opened with both teams trading baskets in a competitive first quarter. Mooresville found early rhythm offensively and took a narrow 13–12 lead after the first eight minutes. Southport responded in the second quarter, tightening up defensively while finding consistent scoring on the offensive end. The Cardinals outscored the Pioneers 16–8 in the period to take a 28–21 lead into halftime. Mooresville battled back in the third quarter behind strong scoring from Chris Thompson. The Pioneers cut into the deficit by matching Southport’s intensity and putting together several key possessions, but Southport maintained a 44–34 advantage heading into the final quarter. The Pioneers made one final push in the fourth, winning the quarter 19–17 and trimming the margin late, but Southport was able to close out the game at the free throw line to secure the 61–53 victory. Chris Thompson led Mooresville with a game-high 26 points, knocking down three three-pointers and finishing strong inside throughout the night. Silas Smith added nine points, while Jameson Elliott contributed five. Mason Samuels chipped in four points and Colton Briede added three.