The Turlock Christian Eagles had to endure a four-game losing streak, but that streak is no more. They came out on top in a nail-biter against Elliot Christian on Thursday and snuck past 58-56. Having run the score up that high, both teams might be doing some extra defensive drills very soon.
Turlock Christian's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Ben Bylsma led the charge by scoring 20 points along with three steals. That makes it three consecutive games in which Bylsma has scored at least a third of Turlock Christian's points. Another player making a difference was Michael Miller, who scored 11 points along with five steals.
Elliot Christian lost despite a true team effort on the offense, the best among them being Jayden Gaither, who dropped a double-double on 23 points and 17 rebounds. Gaither is on a roll when it comes to rebounds, as he's now pulled down 11 or more in the last six games he's played. Jeremy Nielsen was another key contributor, scoring 21 points along with four steals and two blocks.
Even though they lost, Elliot Christian were working as a unit and finished the game with 12 assists. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Turlock Christian only posted five assists.
Turlock Christian's win bumped their record up to 6-15. As for Elliot Christian, their defeat was their 15th straight on the road dating back to last season, which dropped their record down to 4-16.
Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Turlock Christian will stay at home for another game and welcome the Mustangs at 7:00 p.m. on February 6th. Venture Academy knows how to get points on the board -- the squad has finished with flashy point totals in its past 25 matches -- so hopefully the Eagles like a good challenge. As for Elliot Christian, they will be playing at home against the Lions at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday. One thing working in Big Valley Christian's favor is that they have posted big point totals in their last 11 games.
