Written By Paul Garwood

Zephyrhills Christian Academy made its intentions clear from the opening tip, dictating tempo and control in a wire-to-wire 77–55 victory over Royal Crown School. The Warriors set the tone with defensive pressure, clean rotations, and physical rebounding that consistently put Royal Crown on its heels. Every possession felt connected — the ball moved, the floor spaced, and the game gradually tilted toward Zephyrhills’ rhythm.

Missouri commit Toni Bryant authored the performance of the matchup. The five-star senior controlled every layer of the floor, posting 15 points, 15 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 3 steals, a stat line that reflected more impact than flair. Bryant erased drives at the rim, initiated transition opportunities off rebounds, and forced Royal Crown to account for him on every possession.

Zephyrhills’ depth was equally decisive. Five players scored in double figures, a rarity on opening day and a sign of a roster with clearly defined roles:

• Alexander Davis — 14 points

• Ethan Knox — 12 points

• Hugo Facorat — 12 points

• Traymaine Belanger — 12 points

Royal Crown stayed competitive on the boards — a 46–40 margin in Zephyrhills’ favor — but lacked the offensive consistency necessary to close the gap. Guard Andy Gemao led the scoring effort with 14 points, providing the lone steady spark for the Canadian program.

Where many teams in showcase environments lean on their stars, Zephyrhills looked ready-made: organized, disciplined, deep, and anchored by a senior who performs like a collegiate interior presence. On opening day, few teams looked more complete.