Victory Christian and Elevation Prep was the second game to headline Thursday night.  But it was Victory Christian that came out and made a statement early on both ends of the floor.  Their defense led to their offense, creating turnovers and pushing in transition, using their size and multiple weapons to create an early double-digit lead. It was eventually as 21-0 lead before Elevation Prep was able to get on the board in the first quarter.

The lead stayed around the 20-point mark for much of the second quarter but Elevation Prep started to find success offensively, settling down, finishing some tough shots and simply just not giving in; they battled.  But VCCS' ability to share the ball and attack in transition was just too much, helping them to a 46-27 halftime lead.

The deficit was too much in the second half, as Victory Christian continued to push the gas and increase their lead.  Their athleticism, pressure, and, weapons was just too much in the end for Elevation Prep, as they took home the Day 1 victory at the Holiday Classic.

Final: Victory Christian 86 ' Elevation Prep 45

Stats:
Victory Christian:
Takai Simpkins 19 points
Tajuan Simpkins 15 points
Lewis Duarte 16 points

Elevation Prep:
Stephen Quinn 16 points
Branodn Smith 8 points

Standouts:

2022 Tajuan and Takai Simpkins (Victory Christian): The twins did an excellent job in this game, getting out in transition, showing their quickness and ability to handle the ball.  They did most of their damage out in transition, running the floor, showing their athleticism, and scoring at the rim.  They play well off each other and have a little distinction in their game but they were tough getting up and down in this matchup.

2024 Brandon Smith (Elevation Prep): Smith is a 6'4 freshman that is going to be a name that you want to learn about quickly.  Already sporting a tremendous body early on, he has a smooth feel and understanding of the game.  Makes good decisions, can initiate the offense off the dribble, and can create for himself and for others.

2022 6'6 Lewis Duarte (Victory Christian): Duarte has a ton of potential in his game.' He plays well off the ball, using his athleticism and size well inside and out, but also makes high IQ plays, is a leader on the floor, and brings a lot of versatility with his game.' Love his production level and feel for the game.

2023 Stephen Quinn (Elevation Prep): Quinn is a young prospect but man, is he a shooter. This kind has unlimited range and isn’t afraid to let it go from deep. Today, he hit four three’s, continuing to show his range on his shot and why defenses have to always know where he is.