Basketball Recap: Zach Stone's Big Game Can't Quite Lead Heartland over Christian Learning Center

Heartland was the 64-56 winner over Christian Learning Center when they last played one another back in December of 2024, but their luck changed this time around. The Heartland Mustangs took a 61-42 bruising from the Christian Learning Center Mustangs on Tuesday.

Heartland lost despite a true team effort on offense, the best among them being Zach Stone, who went 9 for 19 en route to 21 points along with seven rebounds and three blocks. That's the most points Stone has posted since back in February of 2024. The team also got some help courtesy of Solomon Bollinger, who posted 16 points and three steals.

Christian Learning Center's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Ethan Hill led the charge by almost dropping a double-double on 15 points and nine steals. Ryan Cain also deserves some recognition as he posted his first block of the season.

Heartland's loss was their fourth straight on the road, which dropped their record down to 8-7. As for Christian Learning Center, the victory made it two in a row for them and bumps their season record up to 9-7.

Heartland will be playing in front of their home fans against Northland Christian at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. Heartland is facing Northland Christian at the right time seeing as Northland Christian is stuck on a five-game losing streak. As for Christian Learning Center, they are taking a road trip to take on Plaza Heights Christian Academy at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. Plaza Heights Christian Academy is strutting in with some offensive muscle as they've averaged 52.7 points per game this season.