Valley Lutheran has relied on a stalwart defense averaging 29.88 points allowed per game, but that average took a hit on Friday. They were dealt a 62-30 defeat at the hands of the Fort Thomas Apaches. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest loss the Flames have suffered since December 16, 2024.
Natalia Hernandez
| 01/24/25 vs Fort Thomas | 4 |
| 01/21/25 @ Superior | 10 |
| 01/17/25 vs San Manuel | 9 |
| 01/14/25 @ Hayden | 11 |
| 01/10/25 vs Duncan | 10 |
When it comes to explaining why Valley Lutheran lost, don't look at Natalia Hernandez. Despite the final result, she posted 15 points along with seven rebounds and four steals. Hernandez has been hot, having posted four or more steals the last five times she's played. The team also got some help courtesy of Anika Winter, who earned five points and ten boards.
Even though they lost, Valley Lutheran smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with ten offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least ten offensive rebounds in three consecutive matchups.
Fort Thomas was led to victory by Jamie Johnson and Kaylee Benally. Johnson went 11 of 18 on her way to 24 points in addition to seven rebounds and three steals, while Benally almost dropped a double-double on 19 points and nine boards. The dominant performance gave Johnson a new career-high in points. Another player making a difference was Adaia Lorenzo, who scored ten points and five rebounds.
Valley Lutheran moved to 11-6 with that defeat, which also ended their three-game winning streak. As for Fort Thomas, their win was their sixth straight on the road, which pushed their record up to 22-4.
Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Valley Lutheran will take on Baboquivari at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Valley Lutheran's defense has only allowed 29.9 points per game this season, so Baboquivari's offense will have their work cut out for them. As for Fort Thomas, they will welcome Ray at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Fort Thomas is strutting in with some offensive muscle as they've averaged 58.3 points per game this season.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
