Excel Christian boys win season opener

November 4, 2025

The Excel Christian Academy boys basketball team opened the 2025 season Monday night with a 72-52 home win over Cornerstone Prep Academy.

Following a tight first half, the host Eagles opened up a double-digit lead by the end of the third quarter and pulled away in the final eight minutes for a 20-point victory.

The Eagles led 14-9 after one quarter and 31-28 at the intermission. Excel extended its lead to 52-42 by the end of the third period.

Mason McKinney and Karden Wingard shared scoring honors for Excel with 13 points. Aston Chappell and Jamari Gatson followed with 11 points. Damir McBride and TJ Hubert each scored eight. Connor Garland added four, while Clay Poe and Jayden Jinks finished with one point.

Simeon Greene led the visiting Cougars with 13 points. Seth Bledsoe and Eli Stone added eight for Cornerstone.

The loss dropped Cornerstone Prep to 1-1 on the young season.

Excel Christian (1-0) hosts Trion on Friday at 7:30 p.m. in Emerson.