Pensacola Catholic is on a three-game streak of home losses, Fort Walton Beach a four-game streak of away losses, but someone's luck is about to change. The Pensacola Catholic Crusaders will take on the Fort Walton Beach Vikings at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. Hopefully Pensacola Catholic focused on turnovers this week since the team gave up 22 on Tuesday.
Last Tuesday, Pensacola Catholic was within striking distance but couldn't close the gap as they fell 28-23 to Pace. Pensacola Catholic has struggled against Pace recently, as their game on Tuesday was their third consecutive lost matchup.
Despite the loss, Pensacola Catholic had strong showings from Jackson Pearson, who scored seven points along with three steals and two blocks, and Solomon Sutton, who scored ten points. That's the first time this season that Pearson posted two or more blocks.
Meanwhile, Fort Walton Beach scored the most points they've had all season to find success on Tuesday. They snuck past Crestview with a 79-74 win. The victory was just what Fort Walton Beach needed coming off of a 83-50 loss in their prior match.
Multiple players turned in solid performances to lead Fort Walton Beach to victory, but perhaps none more so than Justin Lee, who scored 19 points along with two steals. That's the first time this season that Lee scored 15 or more points. XY Childres was another key contributor, scoring 15 points.
Pensacola Catholic's loss dropped their record down to 4-17. As for Fort Walton Beach, their win ended a three-game drought at home and bumped them up to 6-15.
This contest is one where the number of possessions is likely to be a big factor: Pensacola Catholic have been smashing the glass this season, having averaged 26.6 rebounds per game. However, it's not like Fort Walton Beach struggles in that department as they've been averaging 26.5 rebounds per game. Given these competing strengths, it'll be interesting to see how their clash plays out.
Pensacola Catholic came up short against Fort Walton Beach when the teams last played back in November of 2023, falling 61-53. Will Pensacola Catholic have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other basketball content.
