Opponents: Heartland Hoops Classic Preview

By: Steven Pham 

Graphic by: Jon D’Angelo

Wichita, KS. - #16 Sunrise Christian Academy (14-6) travels to Grand Island, NE to play in the Heartland Hoops Classic. Sunrise will take on Real Salt Lake Academy on Friday, February 10th at 7:45 p.m. and Chicago Prep Sports Academy on Saturday, February 11th at 8 p.m. 

Game #1: vs. Real Salt Lake 

Real Salt Lake is based in Herriman, UT. and is led by head coach David Evans in his third season with the team. He has led his team to a 17-7 record and will face their toughest challenge of the season with Sunrise. 

Their roster includes; Liam Dayco-Green, Diogo Alves, Joseph Doporto, JJ Apothjang, Luigi Tadei, Trey Evans, Junior County, David Katoa, Samuel Pernyer, JJ Mandaquit, Marko Taft, Stephen Osei, Joao Fernandes, Lyman Simmons, and David Meriwether. 

Game #2: vs. Chicago Prep

Chicago Prep is based in Chicago, IL. and is led by head coach Marcus Spencer. They play in the Grind Session circuit. They are 1-13 in a competitive circuit with the likes of #4 nationally-ranked Prolific Prep, Dream City Christian, Bella Vista Prep, and many other talented teams. 

They are led by their two leading scorers; Michael Jones and Tristian Ford. To round out their roster they have; Jalil Amous, Iffi Kazmi, Caleb Spencer, Jaylin Wilson, Kaydin Williams-Benford, Jiovanny Garcia, Jarrod Gee Jr., and Ray Austin. 

Sunrise has a chance to string together a winning streak with these two games at Heartland Hoops and four-consecutive home games. Sunrise will then head back on the road to close out the season in South Carolina. 

The last eight-game stretch of the season is must-win games for Sunrise. They can utilize these next few weeks to create a winning streak and build momentum before the postseason hits.