Sophomore Kiersten Thomassey locks down her opponent. (Sarah Neltner’20/Media)
The Academy girls basketball team could not have asked for a better week of play. The girls won all three of their home games, besting CSG, Horizon Science Academy, and Whitehall. As the regular season draws to a close, this squad is showing more and more signs of improvement, and there is nothing but excitement for what is to come.
The home stretch began on Tuesday, February 6, as Academy took on the Unicorns of CSG. The Vikings came out slow to start the game, however, their toughness showed as they began to gradually chip away at the lead. Trailing by 7 at halftime, CA regained momentum with a fabulous third quarter, taking a 6-point lead into the final period. The advantage only grew, for when the buzzer sounded, Academy was on top, 40-29.
The action continued on Thursday, February 8, as the Vikings challenged the Horizon Science Academy. The girls played with the intensity that they had against CSG, and soundly defeated the Hawks, 57-44.
The most exciting game of the week took place on Friday, February 9, as the Vikes put on a show for their seniors in front of a packed audience. Tori Abell, Skyla Johnson, and Lexis Hughes were celebrated for their long-time commitment to the girls basketball program, and the three helped Academy gain an early advantage over Whitehall. The Vikings ripped off a 14-0 run to begin the game, as the electric student section gave CA a boost of energy.
The Rams tried their best to keep up, but the Vikes still held a commanding 22-11 advantage at the break. The second half included of a series of runs, but Academy stood strong and came out with a 37-29 win. Hughes led the Vikes with 10 points, as the girls earned their ninth win of the season.
Optimism is alive for this squad, and as the Vikings hit the home stretch-they are solidifying their spot as a competitive team in central Ohio.
CA will look to stay hot by picking up road victories over New Hope Christian Academy on Tuesday, February 13, and London on Thursday, February 15.
