The Mathews High School varsity boys’ basketball team fell to 3-7 overall after suffering its first Tidewater District loss of the season on Friday to Carver Academy, 71-54.

Strong outside shooting gave the host Wolverines the edge in Friday’s contest, as Carver connected on seven three-pointers in the first half alone. Despite that, Mathews showed signs of closing the gap, and a powerful dunk from Caleb Thomas narrowed the Wolverines’ lead to eight points at the half.

Mathews had momentum on its side early in the third quarter; however, three consecutive Devil turnovers swung the momentum back to Carver.

The Blue Devils were led in scoring by Thomas who finished the night with 21 points, including a 5-for-5 performance from the free-throw line. Christian Williams contributed 11 points, followed by Landon Green with 10, Jackson Putt with five, Justin Ashberry with three, and Marc Smith and Tyrese Brooks both with two. Thomas also led the team in rebounds and assist...