The Montverde Academy boys basketball team opened play at the Hoop Hall Classic with a strong performance, defeating Oak Hill Academy 66-57 on Friday in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Ranked No. 9 in the nation, Montverde Academy improved to 8-4 overall and 2-2 in Nike EYBL Scholastic play with the win. The Eagles have now won three straight games and eight of their last nine, continuing their strong midseason surge against elite competition.

Montverde Academy was efficient offensively, shooting 53 percent from the field (29-for-55), while consistently attacking the paint. The Eagles held a decisive 52-26 advantage in points in the paint, which proved to be a key factor throughout the contest.

Dhani Miller led Montverde Academy with a team-high 15 points to go along with five rebounds and eight assists. Joe Philon III added 14 points, seven rebounds and two blocks, while Oneal Delancy also finished with 14 points, five rebounds and four assists in a balanced scoring effort.

Montverde Academy will continue play at the Hoop Hall Classic on Saturday, returning to the court for day two of the event against Link Academy. Tipoff is scheduled for 9:00 p.m.