By David Rogers. MARION, N.C. — Host McDowell overcame an early 10-point deficit but in the end, visiting Watauga emerged from the ensuing see-saw battle with yet another victory, 70-67.
One of the big stories from the game was the continuing development of freshman Pioneer Jaden McInnis, who toyed with game-high scoring honors with 16 points. McInnis also pulled down a team-high 7 rebounds, 6 of them on the defensive end to deny the Titans second chance scoring opportunities.
Actual game-high scoring honors, however, went to senior guard Evan Burroughs and his 17 points, but also adding 2 assists and 2 steals.
Senior guard Cade Keller continued to add to his school career scoring record with 14 points, along with 2 rebounds, 7 assists and a steal.
One of the most complete stat lines of the night belonged to Jackson Love, with 7 points, 6 assists, 4 steals 2 deflections and a steal for good measure.
Watauga jumped to a 22-15 lead by the end of the first period, but McDowell roared back with a 21-13 second quarter to take a 36-35 lead into intermission. With adjustments, the Pioneers dominated in the third quarter (27-17), then survived a 14-8 run by the Titans in the final stanza.
With the win, Watauga improved to 13-7 overall, but remained tied with South Caldwell for the No. 3 spot in Northwestern Conference standings, at 4-4. While the Pioneers were taking care of business in Marion, the Spartans went on the road to Hickory and eked out a 51-47 win over St. Stephens.
Watauga returns home Feb. 11 for a key matchup vs. league leader Freedom, so far undefeated in NWC play, including a narrow 67-65 win over the Pioneers in Morganton on Jan. 9.
