The Dade Christian Crusaders pushed their score all the way to 63 on Friday, but even that wasn't enough to win. They fell just short of Central by a score of 65-63. While losing is never fun, Dade Christian can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' Florida basketball rankings (they are ranked 416th, while Central is ranked 130th).
Despite the loss, Dade Christian still got an impressive performance from Kenvenson Malivert, who dropped a double-double on 21 points and 12 rebounds. Malivert has been hot recently, having posted eight or more rebounds the last 14 times he's played. The team also got some help courtesy of Brandon Cooper, who scored 16 points along with two steals.
Central's victory was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Jodan Wright, who scored 17 points along with six rebounds. Another player making a difference was Justin Suarez, who scored 18 points.
Dade Christian has traveled a rocky road recently, as they've lost six of their last eight matchups, which put a noticeable dent in their 8-9 record this season. As for Central, the victory (which was their third in a row) raised their record to 13-4.
Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Dade Christian will take on Pine at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. As for Central, they will look to defend their home court on Tuesday against Miami Springs at 7:30 p.m. Miami Springs comes in still looking for their first win of the season.
