Bryson City – Cherokee broke open a close game at the start of the 3rd quarter, eventually building a 15 point lead. Swain stormed back taking their first lead since the opening minutes of the game, with 3:26 remaining in the game. Donnavin Groenewold hit a pair of free throws that gave Swain a 67-66 lead. Cherokee retook the lead on the following possession and never trailed again holding on for a 76-72 win over the Devils.
Swain’s Judaiah Littlejohn led all scorers with 31 points, including 5 three point field goals. Donnavin Groenewold finished with 18 points 6 rebounds and 4 steals, while Isaiah Collins had 13 points and 8 rebounds.
Sterling Santa Maria paced Cherokee with 21 points 6 rebounds and 5 assists.