Hard starting

I need to hear the engine cranking over. Can you please shoot a quick video with your phone so we can see what's going on, that would be great. You can upload it here with your response. Please use a jumper or install a good battery.

From your description I don't think it is engine related as that was running okay until the battery voltage drop shut it off. Being a 1997 I would go to the old "pull the fuses to find the draw" test. To do that, disconnect the battery ground and connect a light bulb between it and the battery post. Disconnect the under-hood light if it has one. Now start pulling fuses until the light goes out or goes very dim. Then look up what that fuse feeds.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-dead-overnight

I would also pull the wiring off of the alternator as one of the first tests. I've seen more than a few "new" parts that were junk straight out of the box..

Once you do the testing you might find the draw. The starter or solenoid shouldn't be the issue. They need to be on to create a draw.

If the draw is that high switch to a larger bulb like a headlight or flip it around and pull the fuse first then see if the draw is still there. Another method is to use what is known as voltage drop and test across the fuse itself. Take a look at this video showing this method.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRcj1fQcWwU