The Innovation Montessori Panthers pushed their score all the way to 57 on Tuesday, but even that wasn't enough to win. They fell 66-57 to First Academy.
Despite the defeat, Innovation Montessori saw an underclassman step up: Michael Scott scored 17 points along with six rebounds and two steals. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Scott has scored all season. The team also got some help courtesy of Trevor Thorsen, who scored 16 points.
First Academy's victory was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Amari Smith, who almost dropped a double-double on 13 points and nine assists. It was the first time this season that Smith posted eight or more assists. Rhett Walsh was another key contributor, scoring 23 points along with two steals.
Innovation Montessori has been struggling recently as they've lost three of their last four contests, which put a noticeable dent in their 5-14 record this season. As for First Academy, they pushed their record up to 11-10 with that win, which was their sixth straight at home.
Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Innovation Montessori will take on the Eagles at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. Hopefully Calvary Chapel Academy focused on turnovers this week since the team gave up 25 last Thursday. As for First Academy, they will be playing in front of their home fans against the Knights at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. The matchup should be an exciting one, as these teams are closely ranked in Florida (Geneva is ranked 664th, while the Eagles are ranked 655th).
