Central Academy's Sami Shalabi, left, drives past Washtenaw Christian's Bob Clements during the second half of the Falcons' 64-50 win on Friday.

Angela J. Cesere | AnnArbor.com

Central Academy's Sami Shalabi wasn't always the tallest on his team.

In fact, the senior forward sprung up eight inches at age 14 to fill out his current 6-foot-5 frame. Combine that with an athletic build and a knack for hoops and Shalabi has been a force for the Falcons boys basketball team throughout his career.

"When I was younger I was always small, but I grew real quick. So I use it to my advantage," said Shalabi.

The senior certainly did Friday night, pouring in 28 points and grabbing 21 rebounds in Central Academy's 64-50 home victory over Saline Washtenaw Christian.

Shalabi, who came in Friday as the second leading scorer in Washtenaw County at 20.3 points a game, secured his double-double by halftime, posting 12 points and 13 boards to lead the Falcons to a 34-26 edge at intermission.

"I have a versatile package, so I try to use that on them," said Shalabi. "And I'm very vocal and I like to express my emotions on the court."

Shalabi showed that early in the second quarter after Washtenaw Christian, which trailed 19-13 after the first period, went on a 9-0 run to take a 22-19 lead with just under five minutes left in the half. Fueling the run was senior Kevin Stout, who hit back to back layups and made a steal and assist on a Bob Clements bucket. Stout finished with a team-high 21 points.