The Academy boys basketball team went 2-1 in its first three games, beating Watkins Memorial and West Jefferson, before falling to Whitehall on Friday, December 9.
In the season opener at Watkins Memorial, the Vikings showed how dangerous they could be this season, putting together a 61-44 victory over the Warriors. Watkins Memorial hung with the Vikes to start the game, but could not find an answer for Academy’s offense. Seniors Ryan Alexander and Nick Stringer led the Vikes with 18 and 16 points, respectively. Sophomore Dorrian Moultrie added 11 points, and junior Addis Boyd had 9.
After an impressive first game, the Vikings faced perhaps a tougher test, as they hosted West Jefferson’s team. The Vikes were unfazed by their talented opponent, disposing of the Roughriders 56-47. Much like Watkins Memorial, the Roughriders kept it close to open the game. But CA ripped off a 22-10 run to pull away, as Alexander and sophomore Chris Boyle both heated up. Alexander again led the Vikings in scoring, finishing with 15, with Boyle close behind at 12. Junior TJ Whitman also gave the Vikes a spark off the bench, chipping in 8. It was another impressive win for Academy, as Coach Jeff Warstler’s squad moved to 2-0 this season.
Though Whitehall entered this showdown after losing its first game, the Vikings knew how talented the Rams were. The Vikes stood toe-to-toe with the Rams, but could not come out with a win, as Whitehall escaped with a 69-63 overtime victory. Though Academy had an 8-point halftime lead, it could not put away the Rams. Whitehall forward Antoine Blackshear caught fire, scoring 20 of his 29 points in the second half. Moultrie stepped up late for the Vikes, scoring 10 of his team-high 17 to force overtime. The Rams, however, proved to be too much in extra time, squeaking out a win at home.
Despite the loss, the Vikes are still encouraged by their by their start. Boyle said, “I’m surprised by how well we’ve played this early in the season. If we can continue to play together, we can go places this year.”
The Vikings will have an opportunity to get back in the win column when they visit Worthington Christian on Sunday, December 18.
