The HEARTS for Jesus Christ Guardians came tearing into Tuesday's game with four straight wins (a stretch where they outscored their opponents by an average of 31 points) and they left with even more momentum. They enjoyed a cozy 40-26 victory over Christian Community. Given HEARTS for Jesus Christ's advantage in MaxPreps' Ohio basketball rankings (they are ranked 16th, while Christian Community is ranked 412th), the result wasn't entirely unexpected.
It was another big night for Alex Zelenka, who almost dropped a triple-double on 17 points, 15 rebounds, and 9 steals. She has been hot recently, having posted two or more steals the last four times she's played. Another player making a difference was Maria Cottenden, who scored 18 points along with 6 blocks.
Despite the defeat, Christian Community had strong showings from Adelynn McKee, who scored 4 points along with 9 rebounds and 5 steals, and Reagan Reader, who scored 8 points along with 6 rebounds. McKee hasn't dropped below eight rebounds for five straight games.
HEARTS for Jesus Christ pushed their record up to 6-1 with that win, which was their third straight at home. As for Christian Community, they now have a losing record at 3-4.
Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. HEARTS for Jesus Christ will have some time to savor their victory since their next game is a little ways off: they'll take on Christian Community at 6:30 p.m. on January 12, 2024. Christian Community is on the road again on Monday and play against Kingsway Christian at 4:30 p.m. on December 11th.
