NC Hopewell Triumphs 20-12 Over Berry in High School Football

Titans’ Homegrown Victory: Hopewell High’s Varsity Football Triumph

Hopewell High’s Triumphant Win

Once known for a streak of losses, Hopewell High’s varsity football team turned the tables with a remarkable 20-12 victory against the hitherto unbeaten Berry Academy.

Key Players’ Performance

Edward Johnson’s commendable 201-yard throw, and the combined effort of K.C. Cunningham and Marvin Reed Jr., who scored three rushing touchdowns together, propelled Hopewell to their best three-game start since 2009.

Coach’s Commentary

Reflecting on the win, Titans’ head coach Brandon Gentry emphasized the importance of such challenging games in shaping the team’s mindset. “Our kids needed this, it was a confidence builder. We’ve found ways not to make those plays, but the kids came through tonight,” he said.

Outstanding Performances

Senior player K.C. Cunningham led the Titans with a game-high 80 yards on 17 carries, including two touchdowns. Sophomore player Marvin Reed Jr. added 60 rushing yards and a four-yard touchdown run that, along with Johnson’s two-point conversion pass to Derrick Eley, secured Hopewell’s lead.

The Turning Point

Berry Academy still had their chances to score, but Hopewell restricted them to a season-low. Berry’s missed opportunities and Hopewell’s strategic play disrupted their rhythm and led to Hopewell’s victory.

Player Spotlights

K.C. Cunningham, Edward Johnson, and Savion Kinard of Berry Academy emerged as the top performers of the game. Cunningham gave the Titans a strong inside running game and Johnson completed 13 of 21 attempts, most of them going to Eley. Meanwhile, Kinard led Berry Academy with 60 rushing yards and one touchdown.

Next Step

The Titans will take a week-long break before beginning their Queen City 3A/4A Conference schedule on Thursday, Sept. 14, at Harding University, whereas Berry Academy plays its final non-conference game on the road Sept. 8, against Rocky River in Mint Hill.

Article by Langston Wertz Jr.

Langston Wertz Jr. is an award-winning sports journalist who has worked at the Observer since 1988. He’s covered everything from Final Fours and NFL to video games and Britney Spears. Wertz — a West Charlotte High and UNC grad — is the rare person who can answer “Charlotte,” when you ask, “What city are you from.”
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