Excel Christian opens hoops slate with last second win; Woodland falls in tourney opener

The Excel Christian Academy boys basketball team edged visiting Gordon Central Saturday 50-48 to start the Eagles’ 2018-19 regular season slate on a winning note.

Rayshawn Womack, who scored 16 points and had seven rebounds in the contest, scooped up a loose ball near mid-court and finished with a lay up as the Eagles snagged a victory as time expired.

Kalil Holley led ECA with 17 points and added five rebounds. Josiah Mosley scored 11 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and contributed six assists.

Excel (1-0) hosts Morris Innovative November 27.

WHITEFIELD ACADEMY 60, WOODLAND BOYS 51

Playing in the opening round of the Paulding County Patriots’ Hoopsgiving Classic, Woodland lost Saturday to Whitefield Academy of Cobb County, 60-51.

The two teams were tied at 11 after one quarter before the Wolfpack outscored Woodland 20-11 in the second quarter to take a 31-22 lead at halftime.

Whitefield (1-0) held a 48-40 advantage after three quarters.

The Wolfpack’s A.J. Hopkins scored 13 of his 18 points in the first half and Devonte Watson picked up the slack in the second half scoring 12 of his 14.

Woodland (1-1) was led by Hunter Johnson and Dawson Wilkins with 18 and 15 points, respectively. Jaylen Ballard scored eight points. Peyton Roberts contributed six points and Justice Carter added four points.

The Wildcats will play Lithia Springs Monday in the consolation round of the tournament at Paulding County High School.