Basketball Recap: James O'brien Leads a Balanced Attack to Beat Intermountain Christian

After having lost a blowout in their previous game against Merit Preparatory Academy, Vanguard Academy was happy to have turned things around on Thursday. They secured a 58-54 W over the Intermountain Christian Lions. That's the third time they've managed to beat them this season, as they also won 64-54 last Tuesday.

Vanguard Academy's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but James O'Brien led the charge by dropping a double-double on 20 points and 12 rebounds. O'Brien has been hot recently, having also posted two or more steals the last four times he's played. Nathaniel Peterson was another key player, almost dropping a double-double on nine points and 17 boards.

Vanguard Academy smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 15 offensive boards. That's the most offensive rebounds they've managed all season.

Intermountain Christian lost despite a true team effort on offense, the best among them being Noah Hillaker, who dropped a double-double on 27 points and 12 rebounds. What's more, Hillaker also racked up three assists, the most he's had since back in February of 2024. Another player making a difference was Knox Westenskow, who posted 14 points and three steals.

The victory got Vanguard Academy back to even at 4-4. As for Intermountain Christian, they dropped their record down to 3-12 with the loss, which was their third straight at home.

Vanguard Academy won't have much time to rest: their next matchup is against Utah Military Academy - Camp Williams at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Vanguard Academy is strutting in with some offensive muscle as they've averaged 55.8 points per game this season. As for Intermountain Christian, they will also get right back to it: they'll take on Merit Preparatory Academy at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Merit Preparatory Academy will roll in looking for their 11th straight win, something Intermountain Christian surely won't give up without a fight.