The Crusaders jump-started their 2016 season on Monday night against North Myrtle Beach Christian. In the first-ever meeting of the two teams, Harrells made a big first impression, going on a 33-2 run to start the game and ultimately pounding North Myrtle Beach, 76-32.

The Crusaders jumped out to a 16-0 lead using a tenancious full court defense pressure which befuddled the Stallions. They scored 33 points in the first eight minutes of the first quarter, with Jalen Washington and Dontravis Barfield each pouring in eight points.

They were joined by Ty Scarborough and Shaquor Newkirk, with seven and six points, respectively, allowing the Crusaders to take a 33-2 lead.

The Crusaders would add 15 points in the second quarter, led by Jalen Miller and Brendon Johnson with three points apiece. The Stallions started hitting some shots in the second quarter, scoring 13 points but the Crusaders took a 48-15 point lead into the half.

The tempo slowed down considerably in the second half. Barfield and Corey Pruit would connect on five points each to guide Harrells to a 67-22 lead. All of the Crusaders saw a considerable amount of playing time the third and fourth quarter. Harley Batchelor and Barfield both hit a three-pointer in the fourth quarter on the way to the 76-32 victory.

“I wasn’t expecting the great start. The Stallions struggled with our press in the first quarter and we got a lot of points off it,” said HCA Coach Clayton Hall. “We also have some pretty big guys, 6-foot-5 and 6-foot-6, on the front line. Last year we could only go 6- or 7-deep and this year (we’re) 10- or 11-deep.”

Hall said the team constantly works on improving its speed, a trait it needs to utilize to its advantage.

“We take pride in our quickness by working on drills to develop quickness. Everyone got to play and I’m happy about that. (Tuesday night) will be a little bit different when we play St. David’s (in Raleigh), which has a really good player that is being recruited by N.C. State,” Hall stated. “I feel if we can use our fast-paced game and rebound we will have a shot. But we have to try to limit them to one shot.”

Barfield led the way for the Crusaders with 19 points. Washington and Pruitt hit 12 and 11 points, respectively. Johnson, Scarborough and Newkirk contributed eight points apiece.

The Crusaders are now 1-0 overall.

Corey Pruitt powers his way up past two defenders on Monday night. The Crusaders pounded the Stallions, 76-32.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/web1_HCA-1.jpgCorey Pruitt powers his way up past two defenders on Monday night. The Crusaders pounded the Stallions, 76-32.

Jalen Washington goes up for a slam on Monday night in the Crusaders’ win.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/web1_HCA-2.jpgJalen Washington goes up for a slam on Monday night in the Crusaders’ win.

Don Banks lays in two points for Harrells Christian Academy.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/web1_HCA-3.jpgDon Banks lays in two points for Harrells Christian Academy.

By Melony Henderson

Sports Writer