The Paxton Bobcats came tearing into Friday's game with three straight wins (a stretch where they outscored their opponents by an average of 18 points) and they left with even more momentum. They strolled past West Florida Baptist Academy with points to spare, taking the game 54-38. Given Paxton's advantage in MaxPreps' Florida basketball rankings (they are ranked 134th, while West Florida Baptist Academy is ranked 349th), the result wasn't entirely unexpected.
Hydie Varnum was her usual excellent self, scoring 26 points along with five rebounds. As a matter of fact, that's the most points she has scored all season. Another player making a difference was Alyssa Carson, who scored two points along with eight assists and three steals.
Despite the loss, West Florida Baptist Academy saw an underclassman step up: Olivia Pearce dropped a double-double on 16 points and 17 rebounds. Pearce has been hot recently, having posted eight or more rebounds the last eight times she's played. Kaylee Byrd was another key contributor, scoring seven points along with five assists and three steals.
Paxton's win bumped their record up to 15-3. As for West Florida Baptist Academy, they have traveled a rocky road recently, as they've lost three of their last four matches, which put a noticeable dent in their 12-7 record this season.
Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Paxton and Florala will face off at 5:30 p.m. on January 22nd without much rest after finishing up games yesterday. As for West Florida Baptist Academy, West Florida Baptist Academy and Pensacola Christian Academy will face off at 5:30 p.m. on January 23rd without much rest after finishing up games yesterday. Hopefully Pensacola Christian Academy focused on turnovers this week since the team gave up 32 on Friday.
