Road Test and Home Resilience Highlight Cleveland’s Split Week on the Hardwood

Cleveland Community College men's basketball split a busy week in December, dropping a tough road contest at Forsyth Tech before bouncing back with an 85–81 win over Central Carolina on December 13 in Shelby.

Dec. 10 — Forsyth Tech 77, Cleveland 68

The Yetis showed their grit on the glass, winning the rebounding battle 38–35 and racking up 20 offensive boards, but Forsyth Tech's efficiency and ball security made the difference. Cleveland shot 23-for-63 (36.5%) and committed 13 turnovers, while Forsyth Tech hit 47.1% from the field and turned it over just seven times.

Kelan Flowers powered the offense with 18 points, knocking down 3 threes and getting to the line for 9-of-10 free throws. Cairo Morales was a force inside with 17 points and 13 rebounds, including 10 offensive rebounds that kept possessions alive. Off the bench, Miles Beard added 10 points and five rebounds.

Despite Cleveland keeping the game within striking distance, Forsyth Tech's balanced scoring and extra shot-making late helped them close it out.

Dec. 13 — Cleveland 85, Central Carolina 81

Back home, the Yetis came out blazing with a 43–23 halftime lead, fueled by confident shot-making and crisp ball movement. Cleveland finished with 12 threes on 54.5% shooting from deep (12-for-22) and totaled 23 assists, a huge number that reflected how well the Yetis shared the ball.

Cairo Morales led the way again, posting 19 points and 13 rebounds while going 9-for-10 at the free-throw line. Miles Beard delivered a massive spark off the bench with 19 points, drilling 5-of-8 from three. Jacob Adair chipped in 10 points and helped set the table with four assists, while Kelan Flowers added 11 points and four assists.

Central Carolina made a big second-half push, scoring 58 after the break, but Cleveland's timely shooting and trips to the free-throw line helped the Yetis hold on in a fast, physical finish.

Takeaway: Cleveland's week showed two sides of the Yetis—rebounds and toughness on the road, then explosive shooting and playmaking at home to secure a statement win.