Summit Academy Outlasts Spartans in Defensive Battle
DETROIT, MI — December 13, 2025
By: Caleb Bushell | DVS Reporter
Summit Academy and the Spartans delivered a gritty, defense-first contest where every possession mattered and baskets were earned through effort and execution. In the end, Summit Academy’s composure and ability to adjust late proved to be the difference in a hard-fought victory.
First Quarter — Physical Tone Set Early
The opening quarter set the tone for the night. Both teams attacked the paint and earned trips to the free-throw line, while defensive intensity limited clean looks on both ends. Each possession was contested, and neither side was able to create separation as the defenses dictated pace.
Second Quarter — Defense Controls the Pace
Defense continued to dominate in the second quarter. The Spartans clogged the paint and challenged every drive, forcing Summit Academy to work for quality looks. The Dragons leaned on disciplined guard play to remain organized offensively.
At halftime, Summit Academy held a narrow 15–13 lead in a low-scoring, physical contest.
Halftime Key Performer
Jordan Fuller (#11, Dragons): Led all scorers with eight points, providing steady offense in a tightly contested first half.
Third Quarter — Momentum Swings
Summit Academy emerged from the locker room with improved pace and sharper ball movement, spreading the floor and finding open teammates. The Spartans responded with energy on the defensive end, jumping a passing lane and converting a steal into a three-pointer to spark momentum.
Marcellus Phelps (#5, Spartans) set the tone early in the half with aggressive play, but Summit Academy answered quickly. A momentum-shifting dunk from Marquan White (#0, Dragons) swung energy back to the Dragons.
The quarter closed with Summit Academy playing unselfish basketball. A powerful dunk from Demetri Campbell (#20, Dragons) capped the period and sent the Dragons into the fourth quarter with a 29–23 advantage.
Fourth Quarter — Dragons Execute Late
The Spartans increased defensive pressure late, applying a full-court press and aggressively double-teaming the ball. They focused on shutting down the paint and crashing hard on every Summit Academy drive, forcing difficult finishes.
Summit Academy adjusted by attacking downhill and embracing contact. The Dragons began drawing fouls, eventually entering the bonus. With 23.5 seconds remaining, Summit Academy called timeout holding a 33–27 lead, setting up the final possession sequence.
Despite the Spartans’ late push, the Dragons stayed composed, knocked down free throws, and closed the game out to secure the win.
Key Players — Summit Academy Dragons
Jordan Fuller (#11): Team-high scorer and offensive anchor
Marquan White (#0): Energy plays and momentum-shifting dunk
Codey Bush (#2): Steady ball handling against late pressure
Game Takeaway
This matchup was a grind-it-out defensive battle where offense had to be earned. Summit Academy’s poise, ball movement, and ability to handle late pressure proved to be the difference in a well-earned victory.
