Basketball Recap: Franklin Academy Takes a Loss

After soaring to 63 points the game before, Franklin Academy was a bit more limited in their game on Friday. They fell 32-25 to the North Johnston Panthers. The loss continues a trend for the Patriots in their matchups with the Panthers: they've now lost nine in a row.

When it comes to explaining why Franklin Academy lost, don't look at Iliana Rodriguez. Despite the final result, she dropped a double-double on 14 points and ten boards. That's the most points Rodriguez has posted since back in November of 2023. Rayne Bookhart was another key player, putting up five points.

Even though they lost, Franklin Academy smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 14 offensive rebounds. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least 11 offensive boards in 11 consecutive matchups.

Multiple players turned in solid performances to lead North Johnston to victory, but perhaps none more so than Camden Ford, who posted three points along with five boards and four steals. Ford has been hot recently, having posted two or more steals the last three times she's played. The team also got some help courtesy of Victoria Sasser, who had two points and three steals.

Franklin Academy's defeat dropped their record down to 7-4. As for North Johnston, their victory was their seventh straight at home dating back to last season, which pushed their record up to 10-0.

Franklin Academy will face off against East Wake Academy at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. East Wake Academy's defense has only allowed 26.9 points per game this season, so Franklin Academy's offense will have their work cut out for them. As for North Johnston, they will challenge Spring Creek at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday.