By Ty Marzean
WKTV Contributor
Tri-unity Christian held another defensive clinic in its run to the Breslin Center.
The Defenders allowed seven combined points in the second and third quarters as they advanced to a fifth-consecutive Division 4 state semifinal appearance with a 65-29 victory over St. Joseph Our Lady of the Lake Catholic on Tuesday night.
The Defenders have turned up the heat defensively since the start of the playoffs, allowing just 38.4 points per game after giving up 43.2 points during the regular season.
“It was amazing, wasn’t it,” said Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler about his team’s defense. “They are so coachable; they gave their very best. Whatever they do, they give their very best effort.”
VanKlompenberg hot from beyond the arc
Senior guard Jordan VanKlompenberg led the way offensively, connecting on a team-high seven three-point shots, which accounted for all of his team-high 21 points. He also had four assists and four rebounds.
“Jordan also guarded their best player, and he did a phenomenal job defensively holding him to only six points,” Keeler said.
Game closest after one quarter
The first quarter ended with Tri-unity ahead 19-12 and marked the closest the game would be.
“They were fresh,” Keeler said. “We pushed the ball up and tried to make it a running game. They didn’t have a lot of depth, so we wanted to wear them out.”
Tri-unity tightened their defense against the Lakers’ offense, allowing only 17 points over the next three quarters.
Sensational junior guard Keaton Blanker again filled the stat sheet for the Defenders, capping off the quarterfinal game with 13 points, seven steals, four assists and four rebounds.
“That’s Keaton; it’s what he does,” Keeler said. “He does it all. He’s a great young man and a great player. I’m excited to see his growth.
“They kept playing a zone, and we tried to get it inside, but they forced it outside, so we had an opportunity to score a lot of points. We also had several offensive rebounds.”
Giplaye, Rillema and Mellon control the boards
Tri-unity used its trio of big men to control the boards. Akais Giplaye, Trey Rillema and Joey Mellon brought down six rebounds each.
“Akais is always amazing on the boards,” Keeler said. “He got into foul trouble early and only scored two points; he fits so well into our defense, runs the baseline, and dominates the boards. I’m pleased with the way they play defense. I think the whole team played great defense.”
Tri-unity (22-5) faces St. Ignace (21-6) in the D-4 state semifinals at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at the Breslin Center at MSU for the chance to play for a state championship.
St. Ignace beat Crystal Falls Forest Park 68-51 on Tuesday night. St. Ignace lost in the quarterfinals last season to Traverse City St. Francis.
“They are a good team, and we have to come ready to play, but we are a good team too,” Keeler explained. “I’m confident how we play defense will keep us in games.
“I’m very confident in my team; six of our guys have been here before. I’m excited about the possibilities; we still need to come to play, though.”
