The First Presbyterian Christian Academy boys’ basketball team made a statement about the upcoming season Friday against Appling Christian Academy by beating the Eagles, 80-28, in Baxley.

FPCA head coach Shane Smith reported that Densier Carnes led the Highlanders with 28 points in the season opener. Michael Burnett added 12 points, and Richard Smith chipped in 10.

Frederick Heaggans added six points, Khalyn Weekley and Isaiah Scott each had five points. James Arnold and Jameson Golston chipped in four apiece, while Jared Wells and Simon Steele Jr. had three points each.

The Highlanders went 23-3 overall last year and 10-0 in Region 2-AA of the Georgia Independent School Association classification.

Next up for FPCA is a home game at 6:30 p.m. Friday against I Can Academy.