Landon Coats, left, watches to see if his three-point attempt is good, while his teammates await the rebound under the hoop.
                                 Robert P. Taylor|Sampson Independent

Landon Coats, left, watches to see if his three-point attempt is good, while his teammates await the rebound under the hoop.

Robert P. Taylor|Sampson Independent

<p>Hakeem Murphy, No. 50, boxes out opponents while Coley Sasser, No. 21, goes for a layup.</p>
                                 <p>Robert P. Taylor|Sampson Independent</p>

Hakeem Murphy, No. 50, boxes out opponents while Coley Sasser, No. 21, goes for a layup.

Robert P. Taylor|Sampson Independent

<p>Antonio McKoy throws down a big dunk in the second half.</p>
                                 <p>Robert P. Taylor|Sampson Independent</p>

Antonio McKoy throws down a big dunk in the second half.

Robert P. Taylor|Sampson Independent

Harrells Christian Academy delivered a powerful performance at home, overpowering Halifax Academy 73-30 in a boys’ varsity basketball matchup Thursday night. The Crusaders extended their winning streak to eight games in dominant fashion, using disciplined defense and dynamic scoring to take control early and never look back en route to their 73-30 victory over the Vikings.

Harrells set the tone from the opening tipoff, quickly establishing their presence on both ends of the court. Colten Harrell got things started with a well-placed three-pointer, giving the Crusaders the initial lead. Halifax responded with a layup to narrow the gap, but Harrells’ defense stepped up.

Zicareian McNeil intercepted a Halifax pass and turned it into an easy basket for Demetrius Jones. Moments later, J’Kaeshi Brunson drained a three-pointer, extending Harrells’ lead. Halifax managed to answer back with a contested three-pointer, keeping the game close.

Both teams struggled at the free throw line, with Amir Moore and Brunson unable to capitalize on opportunities. Despite the missed chances, Moore found his rhythm late in the quarter, scoring two consecutive layups. The first quarter ended with Halifax leading 15-7, but Harrells had begun to find its groove.

The second quarter saw Harrells take complete control of the game. Halifax opened the quarter with a three-pointer, briefly extending their lead, but Harrells responded with an unrelenting defensive effort that shut down Halifax’s scoring for several minutes.

McNeil led the charge on defense, picking off another Halifax pass and converting it into a layup. A well-timed timeout allowed Harrells to regroup and adjust their offensive approach. Antonio McKoy emerged as the key player of the quarter, scoring several layups and sinking crucial free throws after being fouled. His efforts pushed Harrells ahead as they began to pull away from Halifax.

By halftime, Harrells had completely flipped the momentum, holding a commanding 38-14 lead. Their ability to disrupt Halifax’s offense and create scoring opportunities off turnovers was a critical factor in their dominant second quarter.

The Crusaders came out of the halftime break determined to maintain their intensity. Moore opened the third quarter with a layup and followed it up with a successful free throw. McNeil continued to showcase his playmaking ability, setting up McKoy for a powerful dunk that brought the home crowd to its feet.

Harrells’ offense flowed seamlessly as McNeil added another layup, and McKoy delivered a series of thunderous dunks. Halifax struggled to find answers for Harrells’ fast-paced attack, and their attempts to score were met with staunch defensive resistance.

Moore added another layup to his tally, and McKoy dominated with yet another dunk, further widening the gap. Halifax managed to score a couple of baskets, but they were unable to keep pace with Harrells’ relentless scoring. By the end of the third quarter, the Crusaders had surged ahead 62-22, effectively putting the game out of reach.

With the game firmly in hand, Harrells gave their bench players an opportunity to shine in the final quarter. Jamari Peterson stepped up, driving to the basket for a score and converting a free throw to extend the lead. Coley Sasser added a layup, and Hakeem Murphy sealed the game with a deep three-pointer that capped off the team’s dominant performance.

Halifax managed a few points late in the game but continued to struggle against Harrells’ disciplined defense. When the final buzzer sounded, the scoreboard read 73-30, marking another impressive victory for the Crusaders.

Harrells’ head coach Clayton Hall praised the team’s performance, emphasizing their ability to execute the gameplan and maintain focus.

“We did great today and hopefully (we) can keep our momentum,” the coach said. “Our defense really stepped up, and everyone contributed. That’s what makes us a strong team.”

The Crusaders’ eighth consecutive win solidifies their position as a formidable force this season. With their sights set on the postseason, Harrells will look to build on their success as they prepare for their next matchup.

The game began with a balanced exchange of scoring, but Harrells’ defensive adjustments in the second quarter completely shifted the dynamic. Halifax’s inability to find consistent scoring opportunities allowed Harrells to build and maintain a significant lead.

The third quarter was marked by Harrells’ relentless energy and execution, with McKoy and Moore leading the charge. By the time the fourth quarter rolled around, Harrells had firmly established control, allowing their reserves to showcase their talent and close out the game.

This victory not only extends Harrells’ winning streak but also underscores their ability to dominate on both ends of the court. As the season progresses, the Crusaders will aim to continue their strong run and secure a favorable position for the postseason.