Basketball Recap: Joe Frain Key Part of Team Effort in Paladins Win

With a playoff win on the line, Pinecrest Academy rose to the challenge on Friday. They snuck past the Horizon Christian Academy Warriors with a 44-40 victory. The win continues a trend for the Paladins in their matchups with the Warriors: they've now won five in a row.

Pinecrest Academy got their victory on the backs of several key players, but it was Joe Frain out in front who dropped a double-double with 14 points and 17 rebounds. Frain is on a roll when it comes to boards, as he's now pulled down 13 or more in each of the last five games he's played. Another player making a difference was Michael Lynch, who posted eight points in addition to 12 rebounds and three blocks.

Paladins

Previous 3 Games

02/14/25 vs Horizon Christian Academy	44-40
02/07/25 vs Cornerstone Prep Academy	58-46
02/04/25 vs Cherokee Christian	66-41

Pinecrest Academy smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 16 offensive rebounds. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least ten offensive boards in 11 consecutive games.

Horizon Christian Academy's loss came despite strong showings from Landon Salvador and Ethan Garabelis. Salvador went 5-for-10 on his way to 13 points and five boards, while Garabelis put up 13 points. That's the most rebounds Salvador has posted since back in November of 2024.

Pinecrest Academy's record now sits at 15-5. As for Horizon Christian Academy, their loss dropped their record down to 19-9.

Looking ahead, Pinecrest Academy will square off against Creekside Christian Academy at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday. Creekside Christian Academy will roll in looking for their 11th straight win, something Pinecrest Academy surely won't give up without a fight. Horizon Christian Academy does not have any more games scheduled as of now.