Basketball Recap: Zara Leilani Stewart Key Part of Team Effort in Lions Win

First Baptist Academy extended their postseason success on Thursday against Seffner Christian. They were the clear victor by a 53-28 margin over the Seffner Christian Crusaders. Given the Lions' advantage in MaxPreps' Florida basketball rankings (they are ranked 67th, while the Crusaders are ranked 212th), the result wasn't entirely unexpected.

Zara Leilani Stewart

Steals

02/13/25 vs Seffner Christian	6
02/07/25 vs Evangelical Christian	1
02/06/25 vs Neumann	4
01/30/25 @ Barron Collier	4
01/24/25 vs Seacrest Country Day	2
+ 19 more games

First Baptist Academy's win was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Zara Leilani Stewart, who posted 14 points in addition to seven rebounds and six steals. That's the most steals Leilani Stewart has posted since back in January of 2024. Eslynda Bouzi was another key player, dropping a double-double with 17 points and 11 boards.

First Baptist Academy's victory bumped their record up to 19-6. As for Seffner Christian, they have been struggling recently as they've lost three of their last four games, which has put a noticeable dent in their 16-7 record this season.

Coming up, First Baptist Academy will challenge Neumann at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. That match will pit two of the most dominant guards against one another: Mylee Van De wouw and Leilani Stewart. Seffner Christian does not have any more games scheduled as of now.