Jason S. (Courtesy Noah B.)

On Tuesday, December 2, the boys basketball team welcomed Mansfield Senior for its home-opener. Both teams started off strong as the Vikings and Tygers were neck-and-neck, trading baskets throughout the quarter. Academy led 21-20 going into the second quarter but came out weak in the second period only scoring 3 points while Mansfield Senior tallied 23. As a result, Academy trailed 24-43 at the half. Maroon and Grey regained its momentum post halftime, outsourcing the Tygers 23-15 in the third and 16-9 in the fourth. Despite dominating and Jason S. earning a 40-point career high, the Vikings fell 4 points short of a victory. This 63-67 loss advances the team’s record to 0-2. 

On Saturday, December 6, the boys traveled to Northside Christian to face Northland in the third annual Kingdom Classic. Academy came out strong and dominated the first half, scoring 14 points and holding Northland to four. Nrthland bounced back in the second quarter outscoring the Vikings by six points. Despite this, Academy led 22-18 going into halftime. Both teams were neck-and-neck in the third quarter, trading points while also capitalizing on defense. As a result, Northland trailed by only three points going into the fourth. Academy proved they were the better team as they outscored Northland 16-12, creating a seven-point lead and earning themselves a 48-41 win. Charlie R. was a key contributor to the Vikings success, as he tallied a total of 17points, 12 of which were three-pointers. This stellar performance earned Charlie MVP of the game.  

Looking ahead, the boys will travel to Worthington Christian on Tuesday, December 7, and host Buckeye Valley on Friday, December 12.