HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. – North Mecklenburg’s patented high-octane offense helped the Vikings open up the new year with a win.

Ashton Pierce and Exzavier Young combined for 41 points in a 91-56 win over Mallard Creek.

The defending 4A state champions welcomed back a dozen players from last year’s team, but injuries and elevated roles still have the Vikings climbing to reach the height of their powers.

Collectively, North Mecklenburg’s offensive attack led to 27 first-half free throws. The Vikings made the most of it by hitting 23 of those shots.

10 different players scored as North Meck turned a 45-25 lead at the half into a 71-46 advantage through three.

Pierce dialed up four three-point baskets to lead all scorers with 21. Exzavier Young hit 14 free throws and finished with 20. His play in the front court will be pivotal as the Vikings dive into the thick of league play.

7 of Chadlyn Traylor’s 13 came in the second half while Carson Evans and Zion Williams added 10 each.

North Mecklenburg enters next week’s game at West Meck with a 9-2 overall record. Both losses were to out-of-state opponents.

Mallard Creek looks to get back to .500 on Tuesday when it hosts Harding University. The Mavericks are 6-7 overall and 1-2 in the Queen City Athletic Conference.

Lajalin Overton scored 13 and Cam Higgins finished in double figures with 10.

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