Snipers Clinch Playoff Spot with Win Over Capitals
4/19/2026by ECBL PR

April 19th Charlotte NC - The Gastonia Snipers outlasted the North Carolina Capitals in a high-scoring showdown on Sunday, pulling away for a 147–143 victory at Southview Recreation Center in one of the most offensive-heavy games of the ECBL season.

Both teams came out firing, with Gastonia taking a slight 37–32 edge after the first quarter. The Capitals responded with a huge second quarter, erupting for 43 points to take a 75–76 halftime lead. The back-and-forth continued throughout the second half, with both teams trading runs, but the Snipers maintained just enough control late in the fourth quarter to secure the four-point win.

Gastonia’s offense was clicking on all levels, shooting an impressive 55.2% from the field. Lonnell Martin Jr. led the way with a game-high 36 points, delivering in key moments down the stretch. Keandre Marion added 26 points and played a major role in the offensive flow, while Jihad Wright contributed 25 points on an efficient shooting night. Jordan Chambers chipped in 15 points, and the Snipers showcased their depth with multiple contributors stepping up in a balanced scoring effort.

The Snipers also did damage at the free throw line, converting 23-of-33 attempts, and controlled key possessions late to hold off the Capitals’ surge.

North Carolina matched the intensity throughout, shooting 47.8% from the field as a team. Donovan Martin led the Capitals with 28 points, while Sekou Omar Jabbi added 29 points and provided a strong inside presence. Dyron Jones contributed 23 points and 11 assists, orchestrating much of the Capitals’ offense, while Xavier Fennell also added 23 points in the effort.

Despite the loss, the Capitals showed their offensive firepower, finishing with 143 points and staying within striking distance until the final moments.

With the win, the Gastonia Snipers improve to 8–1 on the season, clinching a playoff spot and continuing to establish themselves as one of the top teams in the league. The Capitals fall to 5–3 after the hard-fought battle.