Sports: Cary Invasion Beats Wilmington in Inaugural Game

Story and photos by Hal Goodtree

Cary, NC – It was a lively scene at the Herb Young Community Center in downtown Cary on Friday night as the Cary Invasion won their first ever game against CBL defending champs the Wilmington Sea Dawgs, 101-95.

Cary Invasion – Hometown Hoops Favorites

The stands were largely full as a hometown crowd came to see local athletes compete in their first professional game. Downtown Manager Ed Gawf was in the stands. Parks & Rec Director Danny Hopkins was helping move bleachers in the sidelines.

I saw Heart of Cary President Doc Thorne at the game, and Cross Currents Festival Director Carrie Knowles was there too.

Downing the Dawgs

But the evening belonged to the Cary Invasion, our town’s first pro basketball team. They defeated the Wilmington Sea Dawgs 101-95 in a fast and physical game that came down to hustle and desire.

“I want to start the season undefeated,” GM Mark Janas told me on the sidelines. He got his wish.

Jonathan Moore (#23), 6’8″ small forward who played at NC Central, led the team with 29.

Charles “Chuck” Ward, 6’7″ forward out of St. Augustine’s, provided toughness and hustle. He scored 16 and always seemed to be stirring things up under the rim.

All in all, a good start for the Invasion.

Official Home Opener May 13

The official home opener is on May 13, 2011 against the very same Sea Dawgs.  Doors open at 6:30 pm for a 7:00 tip off. Tickets can be purchased at the door.