Guys game was real fun to watch. A packed house, great pace, tough physical play, and two conference POY candidates going head-to-head.
In the end, PG just didn't have much of an answer for Ashton Troutman. They played him physical (sometimes double-teaming him). However, Troutman is a good four/five inches taller than PG's tallest player and he used that to his advantage. He got quite a few "And 1's" inside. His best play, however, was the charge that he drew in the fourth quarter. That seemed to squash PG's momentum.
Uwharrie guards Pierce Leonard and Jordan Harrison had excellent second halves. Harrison was flat outstanding in the fourth quarter. It seemed like he made play after play. Leonard came out and hit at least three threes to start the second half. That turned the tide and gave Uwharrie some cushion as the game went on.
I've got to talk about PG's Zane Caudle for a second. This kid is tough as nails. He tweaked his ankle the other night against Randleman. Rumor has it that he was walking around in a boot all day. As someone that has broken/sprained an ankle before, that's nuts to me. That was one of the best performances on a hurt ankle I've ever seen. Mr. Caudle, I salute you.
Chase Whitaker was also a warrior last night on the inside. He battled Troutman till the very end. PG has needed a player like him for quite some time.
It didn't help that PG left a few points on the table. Those missed freebies were tough.
To the state playoffs we go.......
