Even though the Parklane Academy Pioneers have not done well against the Hillcrest Christian Cougars recently (they were 0-3 in their previous three matchups), they didn't let the past get in their way on Friday. Parklane Academy wrapped up 2023 with a 59-43 win over Hillcrest Christian. Given Parklane Academy's advantage in MaxPreps' Mississippi basketball rankings (they are ranked 19th, while Hillcrest Christian is ranked 79th), the result wasn't entirely unexpected.
When it comes to explaining why Hillcrest Christian lost, one person who can't be blamed is Severe McNeary. Despite the final result, he scored 20 points. Darius Barnes was another key contributor, scoring seven points.
Parklane Academy has been performing incredibly well recently as they've won six of their last seven games, which provided a nice bump to their 10-2 record this season. As for Hillcrest Christian, this is the second loss in a row for them and nudges their season record down to 11-5.
Parklane Academy will finish 2023 at home by hosting St. Joseph Catholic at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday. Each of these teams will be fighting to keep a win streak alive as St. Joseph Catholic comes in on 13 and Parklane Academy on four. Hillcrest Christian's road trip will continue as they head out to face Lawrence County at 1:00 p.m. on December 30, 2023.
