Playing smarter, LCA returns to winning in varsity basketball

After losing five games straight, Lighthouse Christian Academy boys basketball caught energy for Santa Monica fans at a home game Monday to trounce Summit View High School 59-22.

This time, it was Lighthouse who jumped to a 26-2 lead.

"We played together, playing with purpose, making shots, rebounding the basketball, playing with our hands up on defense," said Coach David Horowitz. "All nine players contributed and played hard. We got better over the course of the game and finished at our strongest."

Sophomore Jeri Ballard returned from injury to point guard and his contributions made a difference. Shot-sinker Pat Cannon, a senior, racked up 14 points in the first half. Similarly hard-driving Marcus Scribner was netting baskets. Newbie Johnny Flores, who loves sports but is a bit short for basketball, was making shots.

"With all of the school going to" the home game, said senior Danny O'Neil, "it gave us more energy to play better. Our team was getting a lot of good shots because we were making good passes. We played smarter."

"Best game of the year!" beamed Horowitz. "Super proud of our energy and teamwork."

Here are the previous Lighthouse Christian Academy basketball games:

• Jellyfish Ball
• Gotta keep your cool
• God and basketball in LCA loss
• Lighthouse point guard doesn't disappoint
• Saints pass chemistry class on court
• No gift for Christmas
• Skater sinks shots