After losing to the Hillcrest Hawks the last time they met, Chicago Hope Academy decided to demonstrate that turnabout is fair play. Chicago Hope Academy skirted past Hillcrest 56-53. Given Chicago Hope Academy's advantage in MaxPreps' Illinois basketball rankings (they are ranked 158th, while Hillcrest is ranked 425th), the result on Saturday wasn't entirely unexpected.
Chicago Hope Academy's win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Janessa Centeno, who scored 20 points. Those 20 points set a new season-high mark for her. Amoria Allen was another key contributor, dropping a double-double on ten points and 11 rebounds.
Chicago Hope Academy's victory was their seventh straight at home dating back to last season, which pushed their record up to 9-2. Those victories were due in large part to their offensive dominance across that stretch, as they averaged 55.3 points per game. As for Hillcrest, they have not been sharp recently, as they've lost ten of their last 12 matchups, which put a noticeable dent in their 4-13 record this season.
Chicago Hope Academy will head out on the road to face off against Southland College Prep at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Southland College Prep is coming into the matchup on a three-game losing streak. As for Hillcrest, they will be playing in front of their home fans against Argo at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
