GREENVILLE, N.C. – The East Carolina Pirates defeated the Charlotte 49ers 78-76 on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at Williams Arena, continuing their momentum as they strive to secure a favorable position heading toward the end of the season.
Leading the charge for the Pirates was RJ Felton, who emerged as the star of the game, scoring 27 points on 9-of-17 shooting, including 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. His impressive performance helped East Carolina improve to 17-12 overall and 9-7 within the American Athletic Conference (AAC), maintaining their playoff hopes for the upcoming tournament.
Felton's contribution was pivotal, but he wasn't alone. Teammate Jayshayne Woodard also had a solid outing, finishing with 14 points and showcasing efficiency with 4-of-5 shooting from the field. He complemented his scoring with five rebounds, displaying his multifaceted skills on the court. Joran Riley added his own flair with 13 points, rounding out the Pirates' offensive assault against the struggling Niners.
Throughout the game, both teams exhibited moments of brilliance, yet it was East Carolina's ability to convert key shots and maintain composure under pressure, especially from the free-throw line, which made the difference down the stretch. The Pirates managed to convert 5-of-8 free throws, sealing their victory and showcasing their poise when it mattered most. Meanwhile, Charlotte, whose season record now stands at 10-18 with just three wins against 12 losses in the AAC, continues to face challenges as they look to rebound before their conference tournament begins.
The matchup began with both teams exchanging baskets, but East Carolina soon established control, thanks to its strong perimeter shooting and tenacious defense. The Pirates leveraged early leads to set the tone and used their home-court advantage effectively against the 49ers, who had struggled away from home this season.
Charlotte fought valiantly to even the score, and at several points during the second half, the lead changed hands as defensive lapses threatened to unravel their efforts. The Niners, facing immense pressure, struggled with tying the game, falling short as East Carolina secured important defensive stops, staving off any potential comeback.
This contest added another chapter to the longstanding rivalry between the two teams, with East Carolina seeking to continue its upward trend with playoff aspirations. Meanwhile, Charlotte's struggles reflect the rocky path they have endured this season, marked by inconsistency and missed opportunities.
For the Pirates, this victory solidifies their case for a stronger postseason placement, as they aim to build on their current success. With this win, they now sit comfortably among the middle pack of teams fighting for advantageous positions leading to the AAC tournament.
Looking forward, both teams understand the importance of their remaining games. The Pirates will look to carry this momentum as they prepare for their next foes, searching for ways to improve both their individual and collective performances. Conversely, the 49ers are running out of time as they strive to find the rhythm necessary for success and salvage what remains of their season.
Sunday's exchange highlighted more than just another game; it was about pride, strategy, and the relentless pursuit of victory for both teams. The Pirates now have their eyes set firmly on the horizon, eager to continue their climb toward the peak of the AAC.