The Westlake Charter Explorers 's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Tuesday after their third straight loss. They fell 68-58 to Fortune Early College. Westlake Charter has not had much luck with the Panthers recently, as the team's come up short the last three times they've met.
Despite the loss, Westlake Charter had strong showings from Brian Ash, who almost dropped a double-double on 19 points and nine rebounds, and Quinones Fleeton, who scored 19 points along with two steals. Ash is on a roll when it comes to rebounds, as he's now pulled down eight or more in the last four games he's played. Sysco Vela was another key contributor, scoring five points.
Even though they lost, Westlake Charter were working as a unit and finished the game with 13 assists. That's the most assists they've managed all season.
Fortune Early College's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Mekhi Tanner led the charge by scoring 19 points along with two steals. It was the first time this season that Tanner grabbed two or more steals. The team also got some help courtesy of Jabari Pugh, who scored 18 points along with two steals.
Westlake Charter has not been sharp recently as the team's lost seven of their last nine contests, which put a noticeable dent in their 8-11 record this season. As for Fortune Early College, they pushed their record up to 13-12 with that win, which was their fifth straight on the road.
Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Westlake Charter will take on the Eagles at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. Averaging 65.8 points so far this season, Elite's high-powered offense has been in full-swing lately, so the Explorers better be ready for a challenge. As for Fortune Early College, they will look to defend their home court on Thursday against the Lions at 7:30 p.m. Leroy Greene Academy has been dominant on offense recently, as they've racked up an incredible 260 points over their last four contests.
