The Challenger Firebirds suffered their biggest defeat since November 30, 2023 on Thursday. They were the victim of a rough 56-36 defeat at the hands of Nebo Crossing Academy. Challenger has not had much luck with Nebo Crossing Academy recently, as the team's come up short the last eight times they've met.
Despite the loss, Challenger still got an impressive performance from Riley Annis, who scored 13 points along with six rebounds and four steals.
Multiple players turned in solid performances to lead Nebo Crossing Academy to victory, but perhaps none more so than Morgan Baker, who scored 27 points along with nine blocks and six rebounds. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Baker has scored all season. Tanner McKinney was another key contributor, scoring 21 points along with eight rebounds and three blocks.
Challenger has not been sharp recently, as they've lost four of their last five contests, which put a noticeable dent in their 4-11 record this season. As for Nebo Crossing Academy, their win bumped their record up to 11-7.
Challenger will head out on the road to challenge Lake Lure Classical Academy at 5:45 p.m. on Thursday. Lake Lure Classical Academy presents a significant challenge as they come into the match much higher ranked than Challenger in North Carolina (Lake Lure Classical Academy is ranked 313th, while Challenger is ranked 636th). As for Nebo Crossing Academy, they the luxury of staying home another game and will welcome Pinnacle Classical Academy at 5:00 p.m. on January 29th. Hopefully Pinnacle Classical Academy focused on turnovers this week since the team gave up 23 on Thursday.
