GAME RECAP: vs. OKC Storm • 01

BEL AIRE, KS - In their home opener in Bel Aire, Kansas, the Sunrise Christian Academy Buffaloes kicked off the 2024 season with a big win over the OKC Storm Post Graduate team. Fans filled the gym, eager to see how Sunrise would perform in their first regular-season game, and the team did not disappoint. With senior point guard Luke Moore leading the way in the box score, the Buffaloes settled in, took control, and eventually never looked back, winning 87-45.

The game started off with Sunrise coming out strong. Quick ball movement allowed Aidan Chronister to pace the Buffaloes early with a few quick assisted threes. Sunrise was in the lead, but the OKC Storm kept things tight, pulling within just a few points taking advantage of lapses by the Buffaloes defense. However, everything changed midway through the second quarter. The pace of the Buffaloes combined with their length forced the Storm in to several turnovers leading to easy SCA scores. This sparked a run that gave Sunrise a comfortable lead and got the crowd on its feet. By halftime, the Buffaloes were up 41-25 and had most of the momentum.

After the break, Sunrise kept pushing. OKC Storm tried to make a comeback, but Sunrise's defense shut them down. Moore continued to shine, ending the game with 23 points, 5 rebounds, and an impressive 9 assists. He was constantly moving, finding his teammates, and setting up plays that kept the Buffaloes in control. His performance showed why he's a senior leader on this year's team.

Other players, like Jacob Walker and Aidan Chronister also played a big scoring role. They combined for 33 points and made some key plays, helping to keep the Storm off balance. Every time OKC Storm tried to make a run, Sunrise had an answer.

The game ended with a lop-sided win for Sunrise, and the Buffaloes are now 1-0 to start the season. Next up, they'll head to Houston, Texas, in two weeks to take on Orangeville Academy at the Houston Tip-Off. Head Coach Kyle Lindsted and the team know this game is just the beginning, and a strong schedule lies ahead.

Next Game: Fri., November 8th vs. Orangeville Academy; Houston Tip-Off • Houston, Texas

Box Score: PTS/REB/AST/STL

2 Luke Moore: 23/5/9/4

5 Jacob Walker: 16/3/4/1

10 Aidan Chronister: 17/3/2/4

11 Gallagher Placide: 2/2/2/1

12 Gavin Placide: 0/4/2/2

21 Paulino Mayok: 2/2/0/0

22 Noah Hill: 9/3/1/0

24 Chidi Nwigwe: 8/7/3/1

31 Ivan Juric: 8/5/0/0

35 Anton Blizniuk: 2/0/0/0