Fourth quarter comeback lifts Excel Christian

The Excel Christian Academy boys trailed by four points at halftime and the Eagles were down by six points with just eight minutes remaining before rallying for a 64-60 home win Thursday night over Rockmart.

Excel led 13-11 at the end of the first quarter but the visiting Yellow Jackets held leads of 25-21 and 46-40 at halftime and at the end of the third quarter.

The Eagles, primed by Jakdaden Barkley’s 18 points in the second half, outscored Rockmart 24-14 in the final period.

Barkley finished with 22 points. He was followed by Jacob Taylor with 14 and Kyron McClendon with 11 points. Comari Nettles chipped in eight. David Jinks contributed six. Matthew Simon had two and Caleb Landrum one point for the Eagles.

Tristan Anderson led Rockmart (1-2) with 18 points.

Excel Christian (5-3) plays next at Etowah on Saturday, December 10.

ROCKMART 80, EXCEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY GIRLS 26

The Rockmart girls led 46-6 at halftime and continued to pull away Thursday evening in an 80-26 win at ECA.

Emma Hindman led Rockmart (1-2) with 24 points. Sky Myers and Lailya Clark added 12 each for the Lady Jackets.

Chae Viera scored 23 for Excel. Clara Holley added three points.

Excel (0-5) plays at The King’s Academy Monday night at 7:15 p.m.