It was a low scoring first half for both teams but the action was still fantastic, especially on the defensive end. For GRACE Christian, Jalen Walker led the way with seven points in the first half, while Jaylon Gibson and Keeyan Itejere combined for nine points; both were disruptive and blocking shots around the rim while also running the floor well and finishing strong at the rim. For Voyager Academy, Deondre Ross used his quickness to attack but also knock down a key three, on his way to seven first-half points. But Voyager struggled from the field, going 7-for-20 and 1-for-7 from three. GRACE Christian wasn’t much better, going 8-for-18 from the floor, helping secure a 20-16 halftime lead.
The second half was much like the first, but this one did come down the final shot. GRACE Christian started out increasing their lead to seven but Voyager cut it to two points for much of the fourth quarter but never could get over the hump. Voyager couldn’t find their rhythm from three but GRACE struggled from the free-throw line. Voyager though had a chance to win at the in but the final shot just rimmed off and GRACE Christian secured the 37-36 win.
Stats:
GRACE Christian:
Jalen Walker: 9 points, 3 rebounds/ Jaylon Gibson 8 points, 10 rebounds/ Keeyan Itejere 5 points, 8 rebounds, 2 blocks
Voyager Academy:
Dwyane Anderson 10 points, 6 rebounds/ Holden Buchanan: 10 points, 7 rebounds/ Deondre Ross: 10 points