In an incredibly hard-fought game, No. 6 Goldsboro came up just short against No. 3 Cummings in the third round of the NCHSAA 2A playoffs.

The Cougars fell to the Cavaliers 65-63. Cummings advances to face No. 2 Kinston in the fourth round, while Goldsboro’s season ends with a 20-5 overall record. Goldsboro also won its third conference title in four years earlier this season.

Goldsboro led for most of the game, but in the fourth quarter, Cummings made its move.

Trailing 48-47, Cummings outscored the Cougars 15-12 to take a 62-59 lead. Ta’Korrie Faison’s three-pointer made it 62-62, but on the ensuing possession, Kaden Hammond’s basket put Cumming’s back in front.

With 15 seconds left, Goldsboro had a chance to tie or win the game, but the Cougars were unable to convert, and Cummings pulled off the comeback victory.

Goldsboro has number of key players returning next season, so the future is remains bright for the Goldsboro boys’ basketball team.