Flyers Earn Split at Cougar Classic

The Flyers made the short drive to Sanford over the weekend to compete in the Cougar Holiday Classic on December 27–28, hosted by Central Carolina Community College and Fayetteville Technical Community College, with both games played at Central Carolina CC.

Game 1: Central Carolina CC 98, Sandhills CC 78 (Dec. 27)
Sandhills faced a tough opening matchup against the host Cougars, falling 98–78. Central Carolina jumped out to a fast start, building a 54–31 halftime lead behind efficient shooting and a strong rebounding advantage. Sandhills responded with a better second half, scoring 47 points after the break, but was unable to overcome the early deficit.

Mylon Campbell led the Flyers with 19 points on an efficient 9-of-11 shooting, while Kendall Smith added 14 points off the bench. Zack Noel contributed a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds, and Isaiah Upchurch chipped in 10 points along with four steals. Sandhills shot 45.7% from the field but struggled to keep pace with Central Carolina's 55.6% shooting and +20 rebounding margin.

Game 2: Sandhills CC 101, Fayetteville Tech 94 (Dec. 28)
The Flyers bounced back in a big way on Sunday afternoon, earning a 101–94 victory over Fayetteville Technical CC. After trailing 53–43 at halftime, Sandhills exploded for 58 second-half points to complete the comeback and close the tournament on a high note.

Isaiah Upchurch led all Sandhills scorers with 21 points, going 10-of-13 from the free-throw line and adding two blocks. Zack Noel continued his strong play with 17 points, eight rebounds, four steals, and three blocks. Titus Cunningham provided a big spark off the bench with 16 points and seven rebounds, while Kendall Smith added 13 points and six assists. Sandhills finished the game shooting 47.8% from the field and capitalized at the free-throw line, making 31 of 43 attempts.

Up Next: Home Games in January
The Flyers return home for a busy January schedule at the Dempsey Student Center:

• Wed., Jan. 14 – vs. Patrick & Henry Community College* | 6:00 PM

• Sat., Jan. 17 – vs. Cleveland Community College | 3:00 PM

• Fri., Jan. 30 – vs. Tidewater Community College* | 7:00 PM

• Sat., Jan. 31 – vs. Camp Community College* | 3:00 PM

Come out and support Sandhills basketball as conference play continues at home.