NATCHEZ — The varsity boys’ basketball team from Adams County Christian School (ACCS) overcame a challenging first half to secure their first victory in the MAIS District 3-3A by defeating Riverfield Academy 38-36 on January 9, 2024. After trailing by nine points at halftime, the Rebels mounted a determined comeback, culminating in two crucial free throws by Trevin Barnes with just eight seconds remaining, followed by a strong defensive effort.
The first half was difficult for ACCS, as they struggled to find their rhythm. By the end of the first quarter, the Rebels were behind 5-2, and Riverfield extended that lead to 14-5 by halftime after outscoring ACCS 9-3 in the second quarter. Head coach Rick Fife acknowledged the team’s difficulties, stating, “Our shots just were not falling in the first half. We had some open looks.”
In the second half, adjustments on defense allowed the Rebels to regain their focus. They scored 15 points in the third quarter, although Riverfield managed to keep a slight lead at 27-20 heading into the final period. Fife noted the importance of their improved defense, saying, “Our defense led to some easy transition baskets in the third and fourth quarters. We stayed with our 2-3 defense, but we covered better.”
With a renewed sense of urgency, ACCS outscored Riverfield 18-9 in the fourth quarter. Barnes and teammate Landry Tyson played pivotal roles in the comeback, with Barnes finishing the game as the leading scorer with 13 points and Tyson contributing 12 points. Other notable performances included Lane Pirkey with seven points, followed by Sai Panchel and Desmond Hammett, who added four and two points, respectively.
The victory marked a significant turning point for the Rebels, improving their season record to 2-7 overall and 1-2 in the district. Fife emphasized the win’s importance, stating, “It was big coming back from Christmas. It was also big because the district only takes the top four teams for South State.” The Rebels are set to face St. Aloysius High School in Vicksburg for another district match on January 12, 2024, at 19:30.
In the girls’ game, the ACCS Lady Rebels faced a tough challenge, falling to the Riverfield Academy Lady Raiders 43-32. The Lady Rebels fought hard, entering the fourth quarter just one point behind at 30-29. Unfortunately, they struggled in the final period, scoring only three points while conceding 13.
Head coach Marcus Walton reflected on the game, highlighting the team’s strong start but acknowledging fatigue and turnovers as key issues. “Riverfield is a very well-coached team. We started out well. But we kind of wore down and didn’t execute well. We had too many turnovers,” he said.
Isley Walton led the Lady Rebels with eight points, while D’Kiyah Davis contributed seven points. Maddie Donaldson and Sophia Carter added five and four points, respectively. Riverfield’s Audrey Weatherly shone brightly with a game-high 16 points, supported by Carlyle Shelton with 11 points.
With the loss, the Lady Rebels fell to 4-7 overall and 1-2 in district play. They will also face St. Aloysius High School on January 12, 2024, at 18:00. Both teams are looking to build on their performances as they navigate the remainder of the season.
