Gulf Coast HEAT has relied on a stalwart defense averaging 29.46 points allowed per game, but that average took a hit on Thursday. They were dealt a 67-26 loss at the hands of the Bell Creek Academy Panthers. The contest marked Gulf Coast HEAT's lowest-scoring matchup so far this season.
Despite the defeat, Gulf Coast HEAT saw an underclassman step up: sophomore Kenna Baker posted 17 points.
Bell Creek Academy found their leader in sophomore Aliah Newsome, who went 6 for 8 on her way to 12 points in addition to six steals and five rebounds. That's the most steals Newsome has posted since back in November of 2023. Another player making a difference was Jaslyn Easley, who earned ten points and five steals.
Gulf Coast HEAT's loss dropped their record down to 17-7. As for Bell Creek Academy, they have been performing incredibly well recently as they've won eight of their last nine games, which provided a nice bump to their 15-10 record this season.
Both are set to take part in some playoff action in their next matches. Gulf Coast HEAT will welcome Sarasota Christian at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday. As for Bell Creek Academy, they will square off against Bishop McLaughlin Catholic at 7:30 p.m. on February 6th.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
