After only two practices, the Union Spartans took to the hardwood to open their 2016 season. Princeton jumped out to an early lead in the first quarter, but the Spartans battled back to take a 33-27 lead at the half. It was back and forth in the second half, but Princeton would nail several three-pointers and make their free throws down the stretch to get the 63-58 win.

Priceton was red hot in the first quarter, but Union began to warm up in the second quarter, with Trey Underwood, Cole Bass and Nadir Goodwin paving the way. Underwood got five points, Bass had four, and Goodwin added three to put the Spartans up by five points at the half.

The second half was back and forth with Princeton tying the game at 42 at the end of the third quarter. Princeton would eventually find the range from the three-point line. They went ahead in the third quarter with the scoring being a seesaw battle. In the last four minutes, Princeton would connect on five consecutive threes and in crunch time sank their free throws.

Union coach Keagon Warren said his team looked like one that had practiced only two times.

“I did however see some good things as well as things we need to work on,” Warren said. “I’m extremely pleased with how hard our players work and their never-give-up attitude. They are a pleasure to coach and play hard from the opening whistle. I think we will get better as the year goes on.”

Goodwin led the team with 14 points, followed by Paris Baker with 10 points. Underwood had nine and Derrick Smith added eight.

The Spartans will play at Hobbton on Friday.

Coach Keagon Warren gives instruction during the season opener against Princeton.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/web1_coach-keagon-warren.jpgCoach Keagon Warren gives instruction during the season opener against Princeton.

Trey Underwood goes up for a shot against the Princeton Bulldogs in Union’s first game of the season.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/web1_Union-7.jpgTrey Underwood goes up for a shot against the Princeton Bulldogs in Union’s first game of the season.
Union loses halftime lead after Bulldogs heat up

By Melony Henderson

Sports Editor