May 2nd Charlotte NC - In one of the most thrilling and high-scoring games of the 2026 ECBL season, the Gastonia Snipers defeated the Carolina Thunder 151–145 in an overtime battle Saturday afternoon at Southview Recreation Center. From the opening tip, both teams made it clear this would be an offensive showcase. Gastonia came out firing on all cylinders, pouring in 41 points in the first quarter behind efficient shooting and fast-paced execution. Carolina quickly responded in the second quarter with an explosive 49-point period, taking advantage of transition opportunities and knocking down shots at a high rate to seize momentum heading into halftime. The second half turned into a back-and-forth heavyweight fight. Neither team was able to gain separation as both offenses continued to operate at a high level. Every run was answered, every big shot matched, and the intensity built with each possession. Carolina leaned on its star power to carry the scoring load, while Gastonia countered with a balanced offensive attack and strong ball movement.
As the fourth quarter wound down, the tension reached its peak. Carolina made a late push to even the game, executing in key moments to force overtime and cap off a regulation period filled with momentum swings and clutch shot-making. With the game tied, it set the stage for an extra period that would ultimately decide the outcome.
In overtime, Gastonia took control.The Snipers delivered on both ends of the floor, getting timely stops and converting on crucial possessions. They outscored Carolina 16–10 in overtime, using their depth and efficiency to pull away and secure the 151–145 victory.
Gastonia’s offense was clicking at an elite level all game, finishing with an impressive 59.6% shooting from the field. Their balanced scoring attack proved to be the difference, with multiple players stepping up in key moments. Keandre Marion led the way with 25 points and 10 assists, controlling the tempo and creating opportunities throughout the game. Glen Bynum Jr. added 29 points, providing consistent scoring, while Lonnell Martin Jr. chipped in 24 points and 7 assists. Inside, Curtis Withers recorded a 15-point, 10-rebound double-double, and Jihad Wright contributed an efficient 23 points.
Carolina delivered an outstanding offensive performance of their own, finishing with 145 points and shooting well from the free throw line at 82.4%, but ultimately fell short in overtime. Bryson Mozone led all scorers with a dominant 47-point performance, while Patrell Rogers added 39 points, forming one of the most explosive scoring duos of the weekend. Daniel Quarles controlled the glass with 17 rebounds, and Demetrius Knoxorchestrated the offense with 14 assists.
In total, the game featured 296 combined points, showcasing the firepower of both teams and delivering one of the most entertaining matchups of the season.
When it mattered most, the Gastonia Snipers executed down the stretch, using composure, depth, and efficiency to come away with the overtime win. Meanwhile, the Carolina Thunder proved they remain one of the most dangerous offensive teams in the league and a tough matchup for anyone moving forward.
If this matchup is any preview of what’s to come, a potential postseason meeting between these two teams would be must-watch basketball.
