AUBURN – A fast start paved the way as host Lakewood Park Christian defeated Lakeland Christian Academy 72-46 in boys basketball action Thursday night.

The hosts led 27-9 after the first quarter en route to the win. LPC was up 44-13 at halftime of the contest.

Josh McDaniel scored 16 points to lead the way for LCA. Eli Raymond had eight points, while Landon Twombly scored seven and Jeremy Gross five for the Cougars.

Brandon Keller led LCA with seven rebounds and Jake Harmon had two assists.

A total of 12 players scored for the hosts, including a trio in double figures.

LCA, which has lost its last three games, drops to 6-11. Lakewood Park, winners of two in a row, improves to 10-5.

LCA plays at Fort Wayne Smith Academy and Lakewood Park plays at Fort Wayne South on Saturday night.