Basketball Recap: Lebraun Russell's Big Game Can't Quite Lead St. John Lutheran over Redeemer Christian

St. John Lutheran was not able to break out of their rough patch on Thursday as the team picked up their third straight loss. They were four points away from ending the streak, but they lost a 53-49 heartbreaker at the hands of the Redeemer Christian Lions. Sadly, that's the second time they've come up short against the Saints this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 43-40 back in December of 2024.

St. John Lutheran's defeat came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Lebraun Russell, who posted 19 points. Braylon Dickerson was another key player, putting up 13 points.

Redeemer Christian found their leader in sophomore Graidy Hughes, who dropped a double-double on 23 points and 15 rebounds. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Hughes has scored all season. Another player making a difference was Jackson LaFirst, who earned eight points and three steals.

St. John Lutheran's loss dropped their record down to 4-10. As for Redeemer Christian, their victory ended a nine-game drought at home dating back to last season and bumped them up to 5-15.

St. John Lutheran wasted no time getting back out on the court and has already played their next contest, a 71-54 defeat against Taylor on the 24th. Redeemer Christian has also already played their next game, a 58-33 loss against Saint Francis Catholic on the 24th.