Romello Pegues scores for Triton on Tuesday night.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Greenville Rose downed Triton, 74-50, in the first round of the NCHSAA 3-A boys basketball playoffs on Tuesday night despite a game high 22 points by Romello Pegues for the Hawks, who finished 20-8 and were at home as the No. 16 seed in the East bracket.

Justin Grimes led the Rampants (16-10) with 17 points.

Senior J.J. Cowan had 12 points for Triton.

“Disappointing end to a pretty good season,” said Hawks coach T.J. Morrison. “20 wins is special. Overall, I think we overachieved. The kids battled some adversity and persevered. I’m proud of them for that, but Tuesday night wasn’t our best.

“We just didn’t show up ready to play. Our effort was not great. Practice was good Monday. We knew what they’d look like and do. They hit shots and we didn’t attack their zone.”

Ahmad Morris gets a second half slam for Triton
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

J.J. Cowan goes to the basket for the Hawks in the first round.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Will Watson hits a 3-pointer for the Hawks against Rose.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Demarbiaz Devane (20) is in the midst of a rebound battle.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Jamaury Taylor puts up a shot in the first half.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Brandon Surles drives and scores for Triton on Tuesday night.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)

Carter Morrison warms up as the Hawks prepare to play Rose.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)