Pinecrest senior running back Zymire Spencer is Athlete of the Week.
The No. 12 seed Patriots won their NCHSAA playoff opener, beating New Hanover 30-16, and a crushing ground game led by Spencer is a big reason why.
Spencer carried the ball 26 times, gaining 137 yards. He scored a touchdown and also added a 19-yard pass reception. He has now rushed for at least 125 yards in his last nine games and scored a touchdown in his last six.
For the season, Spencer has 1,757 rushing yards, which is fifth most in the state and second most at the 4A East classification. He’s also sixth in 4A in touchdowns and 11th in return yards.