Westminster Academy knocks off unbeaten North Broward Prep in boys basketball showdown

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - North Broward Prep is unbeaten no longer.

Westminster Academy knocked off the Eagles 53-47 on Wednesday night, handing the No. 6 team in the state their first loss of the season. For the Lions (17-6) it was their eighth consecutive win.

The Lions were led by freshman guard Alex Lloyd, who finished with a game-high 18 points, along with 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals. Junior forward Jaylen Carey - the younger brother of former University School and Duke standout Vernon Carey - added 15 points. 

North Broward Prep (23-1) was led by Appalachian State commit Justin Abson, who finished with a team-high 12 points. Senior guard Michael Kalina also finished with 12 points.

Here are three takeaways from the game:

WESTMINSTER ACADEMY COULD BE DANGEROUS IN POSTSEASON

The Lions have a lot of talent.

Leading the way was freshman guard Rickie Ballard, who delivered several key assists. Ballard was taking the place of senior guard Aiden Abell, who did not play due to an injury.

“This is the most experienced team since our state championship run in 2019," Westminster Academy head coach Ehren Wallhoff said following the game.

NORTH BROWARD PREP COMEBACK FALLS SHORT

The Eagles trailed 39-26 after three quarters of play, then began the fourth quarter on a 10-0 run to get within one possession.

The Lions finally got on the board on a pair of free throws by Lloyd, and were able to stave off the comeback attempt.

BOTH TEAMS HAVE GOOD DEFENSIVE UNITS

The Lions came into the game allowing just 58.4 points per game. They allowed just 47 points to North Broward Prep, which is the fewest they have allowed since January 6 when they allowed 38 points in a win over Archbishop Hannan (Louisiana).

The Eagles came into the game allowing just 43.8 points per game. The 53 points allowed is the most they’ve given up in their last four games, dating back to January 21 (71 points allowed) vs. Word of God Christian Academy (North Carolina) in an overtime win.

BOX SCORE 1 2 3 4 Total

NBP 11 4 11 21 47

Westminster 14 15 10 14 53

(Photo courtesy of Westminster Academy boys basketball)