The Valiant Cross Academy Warriors lost to the Springwood Wildcats back in January, but they didn't allow them the same satisfaction on Friday. Valiant Cross Academy escaped with a win against Springwood by the margin of a single free throw, 54-53.
Valiant Cross Academy found their leader in underclassman Deshawn Hall, who dropped a double-double on 22 points and 17 rebounds. Hall is crushing the point category: he's posted at least 16 every time he's taken the court this season. Jordan Archie was another key contributor, scoring 12 points along with five rebounds and two steals.
When it comes to explaining why Springwood lost, one person who can't be blamed is Greg Johnson. Despite the final result, he scored 17 points along with six rebounds. It was the first time this season that Johnson scored 15 or more points. The team also got some help courtesy of Panos Pananis, who scored eight points along with three steals.
Valiant Cross Academy is on a roll lately: they've won eight of their last nine matchups, which provided a nice bump to their 21-5 record this season. As for Springwood, this is the second loss in a row for them and nudges their season record down to 20-6.
Both teams will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Valiant Cross Academy will face off against Fort Dale Academy at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Valiant Cross Academy is coming into the match with four straight wins on the road, so Fort Dale Academy is out to stop a squad with plenty of momentum. As for Springwood, they will square off against Bessemer Academy at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Bessemer Academy will roll in looking for their 11th straight victory, something Springwood surely won't give up without a fight.
