Basketball Recap: Florence Takes a Tough Playoff Loss

Florence and Pusch Ridge Christian Academy squared off in some playoff action on Friday, but Florence had to settle for second. They fell just short of the Pusch Ridge Christian Academy Lions by a score of 55-53. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest loss the Gophers have suffered against the Lions since December 3, 2019.

Logan Stenson

Points

02/28/25 vs Pusch Ridge Christian Academy	18
02/22/25 vs Coolidge	25
02/12/25 @ North Valley Christian Academy	17

Despite the defeat, Florence had strong showings from Logan Stenson, who dropped a double-double with 18 points and ten rebounds, and Brody Ramirez, who went 9-for-18 en route to 21 points and six boards. The matchup was Stenson's third in a row with at least 17 points. The team also got some help courtesy of Adrian Taufaasau, who posted six points and five rebounds.

Pusch Ridge Christian Academy was led to victory by Noah McKinney and Isaac Hardeman. McKinney shot 53% from the field on his way to 21 points and five boards, while Hardeman went 6-for-9 to rack up 14 points along with five assists and five rebounds. What's more, Hardeman also posted a 67% field goal percentage, which is the highest he's achieved since back in November of 2024. Another player making a difference was Ben Lambe, who earned six points in addition to eight boards and three blocks.

Florence has traveled a rocky road recently having lost three of their last four contests. That's put a noticeable dent in their 24-5 record this season. The victory (which was Pusch Ridge Christian Academy's tenth in a row) raised their record to 18-11.

Florence does not have any more games scheduled as of now. As for Pusch Ridge Christian Academy, they have already played their next game, a 69-46 win against Palo Verde on the 1st.