Forsyth Tech Fends Off Catawba Valley in High-Scoring, Gritty Road Win

HICKORY, N.C. – Forsyth Tech (12-1, 7-1 conference, 7-0 region) secured a hard-fought 84-80 victory over Catawba Valley Community College on Saturday afternoon at Tarlton Complex. The Trailblazers survived a physical NJCAA Region 10 showdown, with two starters fouling out and the home team pushing until the final buzzer.

The contest opened with both teams trading baskets and defensive stops, but Forsyth Tech established early momentum and entered halftime leading 38-33. The second half turned into an offensive showcase as Catawba Valley delivered a 47-point surge, repeatedly challenging Forsyth Tech's discipline and depth.

Despite a mounting foul count and foul trouble, the Trailblazers refused to yield. Forsyth Tech leaned on its defensive identity, holding Catawba Valley to just 33.3 percent shooting from the field and controlling the glass with a 50-45 rebounding advantage. Timely rim protection—including seven blocked shots—helped neutralize second-chance opportunities for the Red Hawks.

Jayden Ross was the driving force on both ends of the floor, recording a massive double-double with 23 points, 14 rebounds and six assists on 8-for-15 shooting and 6-for-8 from the line. Ross's energy set the tone during critical stretches, and his playmaking helped weather Catawba Valley's rallies.

Kyri Wilson contributed 15 points, five rebounds and three assists before fouling out, delivering key defensive stops and helping to disrupt the Red Hawks' rhythm. Darnerian Gibson added 14 points and a team-high three steals while embracing an aggressive role on both ends. Cal Barrett anchored the paint with three blocks and seven rebounds, also exiting with five fouls.

Catawba Valley stayed close behind TJay Mills' 17 points and three three-pointers, while Josh Moore secured a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds. The Red Hawks made 23 of 31 free throws and applied pressure late, but Forsyth Tech's defensive execution and rebounding down the stretch proved decisive.

The Trailblazers' perseverance under pressure, combined with their ability to match the offensive pace, made the difference in a game that tested their toughness and depth.

UP NEXT:

Forsyth Tech returns home to host Guilford Technical Community College on Tuesday at 6 p.m. Guilford Tech is coming off a 71-68 win over Wake Tech. The Titans back court leads the way: #12 Tyren Martin (15.3 PPG) and #2 Mike Webster (12.4 PPG) are the top scorers.

For all the latest information about Forsyth Tech Athletics, follow Forsyth Tech Athletics on social media.