Alex Phelps’20 takes an open jumper. (Riley Hennessy’20/Staff)

A 3-0 start to the new year could not sound better for the Academy girls basketball team.

CA has picked up wins over Whitehall, Genoa Christian, and Patriot Academy, with scheduled matches against Tree of Life and London cancelled due to unfavorable weather. With its longest win streak of the season in tow, optimism is overflowing for the girls as they head into the meat of their schedule.

Academy’s first test of the new year was a road matchup against Whitehall on Friday, January 5. Following a couple weeks off, the Vikes came out with fresh legs and competed for all four quarters, and then some. An evenly-matched affair resulted in four final minutes of play to settle the winner: overtime. The Rams were limited to just 3 points in the extra period, and when the buzzer sounded, the Vikings stood on top, 40-35. Kiersten Thomassey’20 led the charge with 13 points, with Charlotte Adams’21, Tori Abell’18, Mackenzie Smith’20, Lexis Hughes’18, and Skyla Johnson’18 all contributing points as well. 

On Tuesday, January 9, the Vikings hit the road again, this time to take on a Genoa Christian team that CA had beaten in its season opener. Despite playing on a carpeted court, Academy adjusted, and was able to edge the Lions again, winning 17-15. 

Riding a wave of momentum, the Vikes hosted the Eagles of Patriot Academy on Thursday, January 11. Academy stayed in a 2-3 zone on defense for the majority of the game, pressuring the Eagles into turnover after turnover. The Vikings drained important free throws, put the clamps on Patriot Academy offense, and grabbed crucial rebounds, powering them to a 27-22 victory. 

The Vikings hope to continue their hot streak, as they will travel to New Hope Christian Academy on Tuesday, January 16, and Worthington Christian on Friday, January 19.