Basketball Game Preview: Excel Christian Academy Eagles vs. LaFayette Ramblers

The Excel Christian Academy Eagles will take on the LaFayette Ramblers in a holiday battle at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. Excel Christian Academy knows how to get points on the board -- the squad has finished with 55 points or more in their past 12 contests -- so hopefully LaFayette likes a good challenge.

The home team had come away the winner the last six times Excel Christian Academy and Trion had met, but sadly for the fans who attended this one that wasn't the case. The Eagles came out on top in a nail-biter against the Bulldogs on Friday, sneaking past 64-61. The game was the first time the Eagles have beaten the Bulldogs on their court since January 26, 2016.

Aston Chappell

Points

12/04/25 vs Praise Academy	3
12/06/25 @ Rockmart	3
12/09/25 vs Oakwood Christian	3
11/25/25 vs Cass	4
11/22/25 vs Dade County	7

Excel Christian Academy found their leader in sophomore Aston Chappell, who went 6-for-10 from beyond the arc on his way to 20 points and six rebounds. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Chappell has scored all season. Jamari Gatson was another key player, dropping a double-double with ten points and ten boards.

Excel Christian Academy smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 15 offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least eight offensive rebounds every time they've taken the court this season.

Meanwhile, LaFayette didn't have too much breathing room in their matchup against Berean Academy on Tuesday, but they still walked away with a 55-49 win.

Excel Christian Academy pushed their record up to 9-3 with the victory, which was their fourth straight on the road. As for LaFayette, their win bumped their record up to 7-3.

Excel Christian Academy and LaFayette were neck-and-neck in their previous meeting back in November, but Excel Christian Academy came up empty-handed after a 71-70 loss. Will the Eagles have more luck at home instead of on the road? Come back here after the game to get an analysis of the match and other basketball content.