Jack H-S. drives past Pleasants defenders (Courtesy/Cindy Wilson)

If you are a fan of nail-biter basketball, then this was not the week for you. The boys team started its week with a massacre of the Pleasant Spartans 71-15. Then, a surprise victory had the Vikings prepping for Fairbanks on Saturday instead of the anticipated favorite Harvest Prep. The unlikely opponent unfazed the Vikings as they swept the Panthers under the rug, 67-37. This is Academy’s first district title in 13 years, with the Vikings making three trips in the past three seasons and now finally crossing the threshold in a dominating fashion.

First, against Pleasant on Wednesday, February 26, the Vikings made quick work of the Spartans, with Pleasant spending the entire first quarter scoreless. Theo F., Anderson D., and Jason S. led with a combined 33 points, with Theo almost outscoring Pleasant 13-15. Lathan M. led the Spartans with 10. A 71-15 victory saw the Vikings close out their time in the Mack in style as they advanced to neutral site games.

District finals was closer than most expected. The Vikings only won by 30. One reason for this was expected Fairbanks X-factor Holtz M. who only put up 6 points and 4 fouls for the Panthers. Holtz led the upset against Harvest Prep, but Coach Warstler watched film and shut him down and the Panthers offense as a whole. The second reason was Theo’s 24 points. He was electric and supported by Caden I. with 12. Jason S. was four rebounds and two assists away from a triple-double to match his 10 points. 

The Vikings will continue their rampage with Margaretta on Wednesday, March 5, at Mansfield High for the regional semifinals.