COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Although it may have taken nearly all 32 minutes, Worthington Christian picked up a huge MSL-Ohio road win in a 53-49 thriller, knocking off Columbus Academy.

The Warriors stole one on the road, despite Columbus Academy taking a lead early on with tenacious half court defense, forcing tough shots on every possession. In a slower paced first half, Columbus Academy took a 22-14 lead going into the locker rooms.

Super freshman DJ Moore, who was limited to just four points in the opening two frames got things going in the second half. Being the true lead guard that he is, his team followed suit as Worthington Christian outscored Columbus Academy 39-27 in the two remaining quarters to take home the win.

DJ Moore (6’2 G / Worthington Christian / 2022): The first thing that stands out is the lightning quick, Stevie Taylor-esque speed. Some guys are fast, but Moore also possesses a quick first step. He drew plenty of fouls simply because guys could not beat him to the spot on defense. DJ also shows a lot of unselfishness consistently getting his guys involved, and his ability to stay poised after struggling in the first half. Moore led all scorers finishing with 17 points, adding in eight rebounds, six assists, two steals, and a block as well. To be a freshman putting up the numbers that Moore has is special, but to do it AND win in a tough conference is really impressive. 

Chris Boyle (6’4 WF / Columbus Academy / 2019): Chris had a good showing leading the team in scoring, and making some timely shots in the fourth quarter. A bouncy forward with a nice touch, Chris finished with 13 points and six rebounds. The senior will need to be more aggressive in order for Columbus Academy to have a shot to win the league as it filled with a massive helping of talent.

Nakimba Mullins (6’4 F / Worthington Christian / 2020): Nakimba saved his best for when it mattered most, scoring all twelve of his points in the second half. None more important than his three-pointer that gave Worthington Christian the lead for good late in the fourth quarter. Mullins is still raw but the one thing that’s never lacking is his motor, and that was shown when he had some big time offensive rebounds late in the game.  The junior finished the night with 12 points, and six rebounds.

Dorrian Moultrie (6’0 G / Columbus Academy / 2019): Dorrian was the head of the tenacious half court defense in the first quarter. Being a tough-built, hard nosed guard, Dorrian applied great pressure on Moore early on. Unfortunately for Moultrie, his aggressive defense would landed in foul trouble. Moultrie used his strength to get in the lane and finish around the rim. Dorrian finished the night with 10 points, a block, and a steal.

Dalyn Dacree (6’4 P / Columbus Academy / 2019):  Dacree, a big-body, made his presence felt inside finishing and pulling down some boards. He stepped out and knocked down a mid-range jumper as well. Dacree finished with eight points, and five rebounds.

Hayden Compton (6’4 F / Columbus Academy / 2019): Hayden was the ultimate glue guy on Friday night, as he was all over the and has his hands in a little bit of everything. Compton finished the night with four points, two rebounds, three blocks, and two steals.