Gaston College begins two-game exhibition schedule at Clinton College

After playing in three-game jamborees the first two weekends of October, Gaston College began its two-game preseason exhibition schedule with an 85-78 loss at four-year Clinton College on Monday night.

The host Golden Bears led throughout, but closed the game on a 25-17 surge after the Rhinos took their first lead since early in the game at 61-60 with 9:25 to play.

"We needed this," said first-year Gaston College head coach Jamie Rosser, whose team posted 2-1 records in each of its jamborees in Georgia. "We've had two three-game jamborees. This gives us a look at what we really have and what we need to work on.
"Our toughness isn't there, mentally nor physically; I'm very disappointed in that area. We must have both to eliminate unforced turnovers and be able to execute down the stretch when requiring a much needed basket, and it starts with me! It's something we must zero in on and it will also allow us to be a better rebounding team. This will be a focal point throughout our planned practices."

In Monday's game, Clinton grabbed 17 offensive rebounds and outrebounded the Rhinos 52-47 overall.

Rosser also was frustrated by the team's struggles at the foul line; The Rhinos converted 22 of 39 free throws - and missed eight in the first half and nine in the second half.

Gaston College was led by freshman Tyree Bracey (17 points, 5 rebounds) and Asil Hoyle (15 points), sophomore transfer Jordan Guthrie (15 points, 5 rebounds) and sophomore Dee Merriweather (12 points).

"There's one more exhibition game on the schedule," Rosser said. "During this third date versus Clinton College, a few key guys were out due to injuries and discipline. Hopefully we sent the message out that as a staff, we will have a winning program both on and off the court, even if it means jeopardizing a winnable game."

Coach Rosser also commented, "I am most proud of my two freshman, Asil Hoyle, our Point Guard from Charlotte, who carried us with 15 points, 3 rebounds, and went 6 of 7 at the free-throw line, as well as Tyree Bracey, a wing also from Charlotte, who led us in scoring with 17 points and 5 rebounds. This really gives us something to build on."

Rosser's team returns to practice on Tuesday before taking its fall break, then plays its second exhibition game at Catawba Valley Community College on October 27 at 5 p.m.