Basketball Game Preview: Union Grove Christian Patriots vs. Vandalia Christian Vikings

The Union Grove Christian Patriots are taking a road trip to face off against the Vandalia Christian Vikings at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday.

Union Grove Christian is headed into the game having just suffered their closest loss since November 12, 2024 on Tuesday. They fell just short of Triad Baptist Christian Academy by a score of 32-30. The defeat continues a trend for the Patriots in their matchups with the Titans: they've now lost five in a row.

Even though the team lost, they still had their share of impressive performances. One of the best came from Taylor Hanes, who posted eight points along with 11 boards and three steals. She has been hot recently, having posted two or more steals the last three times she's played. Klaire Cromer was another key player, putting up 11 points and three steals.

Meanwhile, winning is always nice, but doing so behind a season-high score is even better (just ask Vandalia Christian). They sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with a 52-49 victory over Alamance Christian on Tuesday. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win the Vikings have posted since November 14, 2023.

Union Grove Christian better keep an eye on Jaida Steele. She was instrumental in Vandalia Christian's win, earning 24 points. Those 24 points gave Steele a new career-high. Another player making a difference was Brittany Guido, who put up nine points.

Vandalia Christian's record is now 6-8. As for Union Grove Christian, their loss dropped their record down to 14-11.

Union Grove Christian might still be hurting after the 48-28 defeat they got from Vandalia Christian in their previous matchup back in February of 2024. Can Union Grove Christian avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.