Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights, January 20!
Every Friday, we’ll bring you an abundance of great local high school boys and girls basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, as well as highlighting some top performers and giving a snapshot of the latest conference standings.
Coming soon, we’ll have coaches and players stop by our studio after their games to chat on the show.
One little run proved to be the difference when long-time rivals Covenant Christian and Tri-unity Christian hooked up in a non-league contest on the Defenders home court Friday.
That mini-run came at the end of the third quarter and into the fourth, and was the difference as Covenant Christian edged Tri-unity 46-35.
“Whenever Covenant Christian and Tri-unity play we always seem to have good games,” Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler said. “It was a close game all the way, but they built a 10-point lead at the end of the third quarter and the start of the fourth quarter and that was all it took. It was back and forth the rest of the way.”
Points were in short supply in the early going as both teams came out and played lock-down defense. Covenant Christian led by a bucket, 8-6, at the end of the first quarter. Even less points were put on the scoreboard in the second quarter. Tri-unity outscored Covenant 5-3 during that quarter and the game was tied at 11 at halftime.
“It was a war out there,” Keeler said. “It’s not like we didn’t shoot the ball. When you play against such great defense the shots just don’t fall. There was a lot of great intensity out there especially on defense.”
The shots began to fall a little more frequently in the second half. Covenant outscored Tri-unity 17-13 in the third quarter and led 28-24 at the end of three. Covenant Christian built the lead to 10 early in the final quarter and finished the final stanza outscoring the Defenders 18-11.
A learning experience
“It was a great game and a game we can learn from,” Keeler said. “It especially teaches us to be more consistent on defense. If we played defense like we did in the first half all the way through the game we would’ve been right there. Sometimes it’s hard to maintain that intensity and that is something we need to work on.”
Akais Giplaye led Tri-unity in scoring with 11 points, followed by Jordan VanKlompenberg, seven and Owen Rosendall, six. Roy Fogg led Tri-unity with six rebounds, while Giplaye added five.
Roy Fogg led the Defenders with six boards. (Courtesy, Tri-unity)
Covenant Christian, which improved to 7-5 overall, was paced in scoring by Isaac Kuperus with 10 points, Johnny Kuiper, nine and Logan Holstege, Brett Camminga and Ethan Deemter, eight apiece.
With the loss, Tri-unity fell to 8-2 overall. Both losses came against teams substantially larger as the Defenders fell to Division 1 Muskegon Mona Shores at the Cornerstone Tournament over Christmas break, while Covenant Christian is a large Division 3 school.
Tri-unity continues a rugged stretch of games against larger schools next week. The Defenders travel to Schoolcraft Tuesday to play the defending Division 3 state champions and then host Alliance League rival Potter’s House on Friday and Godwin Heights on Jan. 31.
“We have a tough schedule,” Keeler said. “We are just starting a real tough stretch right now. We are 8-2 with 11 more games and six of them are against some really, really tough teams.”
Strong defense
Tri-unity will face that tough slate of games with a defense that has been strong all season. Through 10 games this season the Defenders are allowing 39.2 points per game with only three opponents managing to reach 50 points or more and no team able to score more than 56 points on the Defenders.
“We’ve had some good wins against some good teams this year,” Keeler said. “The guys have been coming along. Our defense in the second half was not as good as it should’ve been. We’ve improved a lot on defense since the beginning of the season and that is what has helped us go a long way in the past.
“Tonight was a great game and a good experience for our young men. Losing can be a very good avenue to teach players how to improve.”
Wyoming’s Quintin Williams (4). (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
A breakout game by senior guard Quintin Williams helped Wyoming to a big win as the host Wolves defeated Holland 72-54 in OK Green action Tuesday evening.
Williams erupted for a season-high 27 points to pace the Wyoming offense as the Wolves came on strong in the second half to earn their second win in the last three games. Williams had a previous high-scoring game of 17 points this season, but against Holland, Williams filled the scorebook with buckets as he attacked the basket off the dribble.
“I tried to get to the rim,” Williams said. “I feel that I was checking up too much before. Tonight, I tried to get to the basket consistently.”
Williams turned in a consistent offensive performance against Holland as he scored seven points in the first quarter, seven points in the second quarter and finished the game strong with 11 points in the final quarter.
“Quintin did a nice job of controlling the ball,” said Wyoming Coach Thom Vander Klay. “He did a nice job of getting to the rim and pulling up when it wasn’t there. I think he was a little pumped up early, but he settled down and did a nice job.”
Wyoming senior guard Alyjah Chandler (10) sets up the offense against Holland. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
Williams had plenty of help both on offense and on the defensive end as the Wolves needed a total-team effort to overcome some early foul trouble that kept the game tight in the early going.
Wyoming led 15-14 at the end of the first quarter. The Wolves led throughout the second quarter and a three-point play on a drive to the hoop at the end of the first half by Williams gave Wyoming a 34-27 halftime lead.
“I thought that our kids off the bench did a great job,” Vander Klay said. “We had a little bit of foul trouble in the first half and we needed a lot of kids to come off the bench. They gave us some quality minutes and played their roles really well.”
Wyoming began to take command of the game during the second half. The Wolves outscored Holland 7-3 to start the second half and take a 41-30 lead. Some stingy defense also was key for the Wolves during the third quarter as the Wyoming defense limited Holland to eight total points in the third quarter. Wyoming protected the double-digit lead it built and went into the final quarter leading 46-35.
A 7-0 run to start the fourth gave the Wolves some breathing room. The run was capped by a three-point shot by Maxi Morales that put Wyoming up 53-35.
Holland cut the Wyoming advantage to 55-41 midway through the fourth quarter before the Wolves put the game on ice with an 8-0 run that increased the Wyoming lead to 63-41.
Maxi Morales (3) of Wyoming tries to get open during OK Green action against Holland. (WKTV/Greg Chrapek)
“This was a big win for us,” Williams said. “We’ve had an up and down season and this win can help turn our season around.”
The win improved Wyoming to 3-6 overall for the season and 2-2 in the OK Green.
“We keep getting better and better,” Vander Klay said. “We are getting better, but sometimes the kids are not so sure when you don’t get the wins. I think the kids feel good to get this win.”
Along with 27 from Williams, Wyoming received eight points from Logan Marvin and seven points apiece from Maxi Morales and Alyjah Chandler. Avonte’ Wiggins added six points, while Donavyn Edwards and Warren Williams added five each, Jacob Reeder, three points and Buster Cross and Gage Behrenbrinker, two apiece.
Holland fell to 2-8 overall, 0-4 in the Green. Cameron Ferguson led the Dutch with 12 points.
Wyoming returns to action Friday when it hosts state-ranked Muskegon, which entered play Tuesday at 8-0.
Kennedie Crawford and Abby Rivera-Sosa combined for 31 points to propel Grand River Prep to its first win of the early season.
The Titans knocked off Lee 50-27 to improve to 1-1 in the Alliance League, 1-3 overall, while Lee dropped to 0-2 in the league, 1-9 overall.
“Abby and Kennedie played very well tonight offensively and defensively,” said Grand River Prep Coach Morgan McMullan, who averaged 10 points per game while at NorthPointe Christian a few years ago. “They really stepped up as my point guards tonight. I’m proud of them.”
Crawford, a sophomore who started as a freshman as well, led with 19 points against Lee, including three treys.
Grand River Prep senior Abby Rivera-Sosa. (Courtesy, Grand River Prep)
“She’s a very quiet leader, but she leads and makes sure she gets her teammates open, and makes sure she’s scoring as well,” McMullan said. “She’s an all around great player.
“Her and Abby have led the way this season in points.”
Rivera-Sosa, a senior, added 12 points against Lee.
“I think we definitely turned the corner,” said McMullan, of getting their first win of the season. “It comes down to who really wants to win … and we’re the team that wanted to win more.
“We’ve been practicing two months with barely playing any games. We had four games that were cancelled in the beginning of the season. We feel like we can only go up from here, honestly.”
McMullan also was impressed with the play of her sophomore center Samantha Mendoza, who scored six points.
“We’ve been working with her a lot to get rebounds and put them back up,” McMullan said. “She worked really hard on the boards tonight.
As far as the Alliance League goes, McMullan said she thinks her Titans should compete really well against the other teams.
Grand Rapids Gold center Lacey James tells people he came out of the womb with a basketball.
While watching the 6-foot-9 Grand Rapids native warm up in preparation for a game, this reporter noticed James move with quiet intensity and focus. His love for the game is obvious in the attention he gave to each movement and handling of the ball.
In speaking with James after warming up, the 26-year-old told WKTV that he doesn’t remember a time when he didn’t love playing basketball.
“My first love was basketball,” James said.
Showing his love for the game at an early age. (Courtesy, Lacey James)
And no wonder — love of the sport was ingrained in his family. James’s mother and each of her siblings all received scholarships to play college basketball.
“I grew up surrounded by it all the time,” James said.
James was only seven years old when he began playing competitively with a travel basketball team.
James said the opportunity to travel to other states, play basketball and meet new people was exciting and fun.
“I saw more than the other kids because I traveled and played in arenas around the country,” James explained.
And he has never stopped playing.
A three-year starter for the Wayland Wildcats, where he averaged 20 points and 15 rebounds per game, James then signed with Rider University’s Broncs in New Jersey. After a year at RU, James transferred to Northern Illinois University where he played for the NIU Huskies until graduating in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in communications. During his final college season, he averaged nine points and 8 rebounds per game.
Lacey James (No. 4) in a game against the Windy City Bulls. (Courtesy, Sam Iannamico/Grand Rapids Gold)
James’s journey has led him to wearing No. 4 for the Grand Rapids Gold, a professional basketball team in the NBA G League affiliated with the Denver Nuggets.
He began the season on the Motor City Cruise roster, then came back to Grand Rapids and spent a few weeks practicing with the Grand Rapids Gold. They signed James to the team, and he made his debut as a Gold player in an away game against the Windy City Bulls.
The Grand Rapids Gold was founded in 2006 as the Anaheim Arsenal, relocating to Springfield, Massachusetts in 2009 as the Springfield Armor. In 2014, the league was renamed the Grand Rapids Drive, subsequently changing to Grand Rapids Gold in 2021.
The expansion team of the NBA Development League (NBA D-League) entered a multi-year partnership with Gatorade and was rebranded the NBA Gatorade League (NBA G League) prior to the 2017-18 season.
Not alone during the journey
But James freely admits that he didn’t get to where he is without the help of the people around him.
The only child of Karie James, Lacey said, “My mom and I are very close. She was there for me always, my number one fan.”
After signing with RU, Karie followed Lacey to New Jersey at his request.
“My mom did move out with me to New Jersey. It was cool, being all the way out on the east coast, to have somebody that close (to me) there. She sacrificed a lot for me.”
But James said he had a lot of people in his support system.
Grand Rapids Gold’s Lacey James dunking the ball. (Courtesy, Sam Iannamico/Grand Rapids Gold)
“I didn’t get here by myself. I had a lot of people that supported me and helped me out along the way.”
James said there were several players in the NBA as well as in his own neighborhood who inspired him, but that, “I never really had somebody that showed me the ropes, showed me what it would be like from elementary school, to middle school, to high school. I never had that.”
But that didn’t stop him.
“I kept trying to inspire and motivate myself every step of the way,” James said. “I just kept pushing myself along the path. I worked hard.”
Even the No. 4 on his jersey has special meaning to James.
“I wear that number because I play for four things,” James said. “God, family, an opportunity to change the world, and making a difference in the world with his platform are what motivates James every day.
James admitted that his favorite player growing up was Lebron James. Lebron’s presence on and off the court was only part of the Los Angeles Lakers player’s appeal. Having the same initials, both being only children, and both being 6-9 helped a young Lacey James relate to the basketball player in a unique way.
A voice in the world
“My goal is definitely to be on an NBA team and to have a long career and do something with my platform, inspire the world with my name, my voice and my resources.”
Lacey James, left, in a game vs. the Windy City Bulls. (Courtesy, Sam Iannamico/Grand Rapids Gold)
Having a chance to play professionally in his hometown during that journey means a lot to James.
“I grew up in Grand Rapids,” said James, “and we don’t have the NBA players like L.A. and New York … I would love to make it to those main teams and be that guy to come back and help those little kids and show them the ropes, show them the way to go.”
James credits God for his many accomplishments.
“God really blessed me … from my body, to my opportunities, to the doors he opened,” James said. “I credit God first because without him, none of this would be possible. I wouldn’t be in this position, I wouldn’t be who I am.”
When time allows, James makes it a point to work with kids on the side and has been to schools to speak with basketball teams and sometimes entire student bodies.
Kids that come to a GR Gold game often want to meet and talk to the players after the game. James tries to make sure he is available if kids are interested in meeting players.
“If they want to listen, or if they want to know something, I’ll do it for sure,” James said.
James, however, does not allow the focus to remain on his accomplishments for long.
“God put me in this position. He blessed me with this, and it’s just the beginning.”
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights!
Every Friday, we’ll bring you an abundance of great local high school boys and girls basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, as well as highlighting some top performers and giving a snapshot of the latest conference standings.
Coming soon, we’ll have coaches and players stop by our studio after their games to chat on the show.
From left, Puma team members: Joy McClendon, 5, and Ivy Andreas, 2. (WKTV)
Defense was the name of the game as Potter’s House Christian defeated West Michigan Aviation 54-23 in an Alliance League girls basketball game.
The Pumas took command of the game with their lock-down defense right from the opening tip allowing just a single point in the first quarter and a single field goal in the second period enroute to taking a commanding 25-3 halftime lead.
“We got our full-court press working pretty well,” said Potter’s House Christian coach Jake Hoogstrate. “Our pressure forced a lot of turnovers.”
Ivy Andreas was one of the ringleaders of the Puma defense.
“Ivy was all over the place defensively,” Hoogstrate said. “She was a big key in limiting them to three points in the first half. She also had a lot of assists on offense and played a great game.”
Playing strong defense is a point of pride for the Pumas who improved to 8-4 overall for the season and 2-0 in the Alliance League.
“We pride ourselves in how we play defense,” Hoogstrate said. “Playing strong defense is definitely a focus of our team over the years. We definitely didn’t play great defense on Tuesday at Saugatuck so we wanted to come out tonight and play great defense.”
Potter’s House’s Emmonne Craig helped with the Puma’s defense. (WKTV)
Potter’s House extended the lead to 37-10 at the end of the third quarter and outscored West Michigan Aviation 17-13 in the final quarter.
“We got off to a hot start which was fun,” Hoogstrate said. “It’s always good to see the ball go in the basket early.”
Anyieth Nhial led the way on offense for the Pumas with 23 points. Joy McClendon added eight points while Annie Winkle, Emily Baez and Emonne Craig added six points apiece.
Potter’s House Christian returns to action Tuesday when it hosts Muskegon Oakridge.
West Michigan Aviation was led on offense by Ava Bazuin who scored 13 of the Aviators 23 points. West Michigan Aviation fell to 5-7 overall for the season and 1-1 in the conference. The Aviators are off until Jan. 25 when they travel to Grand Rapids Sacred Heart.
Godwin Heights players, from left, Damarie Thompson, Jace Reid-Anderson and Tre’Vonte Buckley talk over strategy during Friday’s OK Silver game with Calvin Christian. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
Sole possession of first place in the OK Silver was on the line when Godwin Heights visited Calvin Christian Friday night and the long-time rivals added another thrilling chapter to the rivalry with the host Squires holding off Godwin 71-61.
Led by standout senior guard Jakhary Towns, Godwin Heights started fast. The Wolverines jumped out to an 8-1 lead and were up 14-7 before Calvin began to assert its height advantage and pound the ball inside and flex their muscles on the offensive glass.
Senior guard Jakhary Towns led Godwin Heights with 32 points. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
Towns was on fire offensively in the opening quarter as he scored 12 of his game-high 32 points then and assisted on both of Godwin’s other two field goals in that quarter.
“Jakhary is one of the best guards in the state and he showed it again tonight,” said Godwin Heights coach Tyler Whittemore. “He just showed that consistency that he’s had over the past four years.”
Calvin was prepared for Towns and the Squires did the best they could throughout the game to keep him from dominating the game.
“We knew coming in that Jakhary is a great player,” said Calvin Christian coach Matt Veltema. “We knew that we had to at least try and contain him because he is just too good a player to stop.”
With three players standing 6-foot-5 and four players 6-foot-4, Calvin had the size advantage and the Squires used that to their advantage. Calvin pounded the glass on the offensive end and came up with numerous second and third chances on offense. Calvin gained control of the game in the second quarter as the Squires outscored Godwin 16-6 to take a 30-22 lead.
“We always make it a priority to battle hard on the boards,” Veltema said. “We knew we had to do a good job of controlling the boards.”
The Squires also featured a talented senior guard of their own in Jack Agema. Agema’s ball-handling skills were key against Godwin’s pressure defense and his playmaking enabled the Squires to get the ball to their big players down low. Agema also led the Calvin offense with 21 points.
Calvin was up 33-26 at the half and opened up a 38-28 lead early in the third quarter. Godwin, however, battled back each time Calvin made a run. The Wolverines cut the Calvin lead to 42-35 midway through the third quarter and then cut the Squire lead to 47-42 on a bucket by Towns late in the third.
“We play the game for the entire 32 minutes,” Whittemore said. “You never know what is going to happen. The guys gave it their best shot and they never quit.”
Godwin makes fourth-quarter run
Trailing by 11 points early in the fourth quarter, the Wolverines made a strong run midway through the final stanza. Godwin reeled off seven consecutive points, cutting the Calvin lead to 55-51 with 4:09 remaining in the game when Towns drained a pair of free throws. That was as close as the Wolverines would get, however, as Calvin stemmed the tide and outscored Godwin 8-3 in the final minute of the game with all the points coming at the free-throw line.
“It was a battle,” Veltema said. “I know Tyler and he always has a very well-coached team. It is always a battle with his team. It was a fun game, up and down the court, and they (Godwin) never gave up.”
With the win, Calvin Christian improved to 8-1 overall and 3-1 in the OK Silver. Along with 21 points from Agema, the Squires received 16 points from Carson DeHaan and 14 from Matt Elderkin.
Godwin Heights fell to 5-2 overall for the season and 3-1 in the conference. Towns led the way with 32 points, while Damarie Thompson added 15 and Jaylen Martin six.
“I think we are growing every day as a team,” Whittemore said. “I give a lot of credit to the boys for how hard they worked in the off-season. They are performing at a high level right now because of that hard work.”
Godwin Heights returns to action at Belding on Tuesday and then hosts Hopkins Friday.
East Kentwood players Ardrace Morris and Christian Humphrey-Rembert (from left) try boxing out Rockford. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
In a long basketball season, there are certain games that can tip the balance between a good season and a great season.
The East Kentwood boys basketball team experienced just such a game Tuesday at OK Red rival Rockford when it erased a 13-point halftime deficit and defeated Rockford 51-49 on a last-second shot.
Sophomore Jah Hatchett gets winning bucket
Falcon sophomore Jah Hatchett provided the game-winning basket with three seconds remaining in the game as he rebounded an East Kentwood miss and layed it in for the winning points.
The bucket gave Kentwood a win that was special in more than one way. First, the Falcons bounced back in a big way from their first loss of the season the previous Saturday against Birmingham Brother Rice. Second, the Falcons managed to do it on the road in a hostile environment, and third, they erased a 13-point halftime deficit to accomplish the feat.
East Kentwood’s Marshaun Flakes helped turn things around against Rockford. (WKTV, Greg Chrapek)
“Big Win” says Marshaun Flakes
“This was a big win for us,” said East Kentwood senior Marshaun Flakes, in his third season on varsity. “We haven’t defeated Rockford in a long time. It was also a big win to get after our loss to Brother Rice. It felt good to bounce back.”
Bounce back was what the Falcons needed to do after falling behind by as many as 18 points during the first half. Rockford came out hitting on all cylinders and the Rams led 18-6 at the end of the first quarter. Rockford continued to build on the lead in the second quarter as it feasted on Kentwood turnovers and converted open opportunities.
Big halftime lead for Rockford
At halftime, Rockford went into the locker room with a 30-13 lead, while East Kentwood went back to the drawing board.
The Falcons made some defensive adjustments at halftime and came out in the second half looking like a different team as they picked up the defensive pressure. Using a full-court, trapping press, the Falcons forced Rockford into numerous turnovers and it was Kentwood that turned the turnovers into easy buckets on the offensive end.
“We made a few adjustments to our zone,” said East Kentwood Coach Mike Thomas. “We increased the pressure and started attacking. On offense, once we hit a three our guys really started to feel confident. It was like the light was turned on once they saw that first three fall.”
Marshaun Flakes drained that first three ball of the second half and that trey led to a torrent of points during the third quarter. Down 34-16 in the early minutes of the second half, Kentwood went on a 9-0 run that trimmed the deficit to single digits following a bucket by Jyair Harris.
The Falcons kept applying the pressure on the defensive end producing steals and getting some big blocked shots from 6-foot-9 senior Christian Humphrey-Rembert. Humphrey-Rembert recently joined the team just before Christmas when he transferred back to East Kentwood from La Lumiere prep school in Indiana.
EK grabs the lead by one to end third
Trailing 40-33, East Kentwood finished the third quarter with an 8-0 run and took a 41-40 lead at the end of the quarter on a bucket from Hatchett.
The contest went back and forth during the final quarter with the score tied twice and the lead changing hands four times as both squads played at a slow pace. Kentwood went up 49-47 on a bucket by Flakes with 2:03 remaining before Rockford tied the game with a pair of free throws with 1:36 remaining. After the teams traded turnovers, East Kentwood held the ball for the last 30 seconds of the game before Hatchett put in the final points with three seconds left.
“We are like a new program,” Thomas said. “I’m a new coach and we have some new players and a new system and it’s taken an adjustment period. There were some crazy things happening, but our guys just kept fighting back and never quit. I’m proud of the way the guys kept battling and never quit.”
Hatchett led the Falcons in scoring with 14 points followed by Flakes with 13 and Darryl Thompkins with 10. Harris added six points while Landon Storms added three, Ardrace Morris, two points and Humphrey-Rembert, two points on a highlight-reel dunk during the fourth quarter.
With the win, East Kentwood improved to 5-1 overall and 2-0 in the OK Red. The Falcons return to action Friday at Grandville and then play Detroit Henry Ford on Saturday at 1:45 p.m. at Ottawa Hills High School as part of the Martin Luther King Day Hoops Classic hosted by Ottawa Hills.
After a four-game winning streak, including a “Battle of Wyoming” championship over the holidays, the Wyoming girls basketball team was cooled off by Mona Shores 58-49 Tuesday.
Coach Jesse Vasquez said every time his Wolves cut into the lead, Mona Shores would build it up again.
“In the fourth quarter, Mona had us by 14 points and we cut it down to seven, but couldn’t get over the hump,” said Vasquez, whose team fell to 6-4 overall. “They would make a big 3 to put it back at 10 points.
“We just couldn’t get in a rhythm. They did a real good job defensively against us, and we couldn’t find a bucket when we needed one.”
Last year, Mona Shores finished atop the OK Green at 12-2 and were 19-4 overall.
Wyoming freshman Myah Nabors led in scoring with eight points.
Vasquez said La’Anna Griffin, Shakya Anderson and Meneliza McGee are “some big pieces for us this year.”
Turning things around
Vasquez said recently winning the Potter’s House holiday tournament, the “Battle of Wyoming,” was a cool experience.
“It was a great atmosphere; really loud and great that our girls found a way at the end to win,” said Vasquez, whose Wolves were 4-17 overall last year and have won two more games at this early point in the season.
“I didn’t come in to a bare cupboard; the cupboards are very full,” continued Vasquez, in his first season. “We’re getting them to rely on their teammates, trust one another and they definitely put the work in every practice.
After a tight 33-32 halftime lead, the Tri-unity boys turned it up a notch in the second half to knock off host Western Michigan Christian 78-50 on Tuesday.
“We really let it fly in the second half,” said Defenders Coach Mark Keeler, whose team improved to 6-1 overall. “We stepped it up in the second half and they kind of cooled down a little on their shooting.
“It was a war in the first half. Western Michigan Christian played a good game against us. They shot the ball, really, really well.”
Jordan VanKlompenberg had 12 points and five assists for the Defenders. (Courtesy, Tri-unity)
Senior Roy Fogg led the Defenders with 15 points, followed by Jordan VanKlompenberg, 12 points and five assists; Akais Giplaye, 12 points and 10 rebounds and Keaton Blanker with 11 points and 6 assists.
Fogg (6-foot-3) is a first-year varsity player who played homeschool basketball last year, according to Keeler.
“His mom Becky graduated from Tri-unity in 1996, our first state championship in basketball,” continued Keeler, who’s coached for 36 years. “He’s a very good player and a nice young man. We’re so happy that he’s here.
“We had a very good returning crew this year. Giplaye (junior) was on varsity last year and played in the state finals. We have such good balance that the scoring leaders vary. Owen Rosendall scored 21 points (7 three-pointers) last week against Fruitport Calvary.”
Last year, the Defenders won the D-4 state championship.
“I think we can make another run at the state championship,” Keeler said. “We obviously want to win the conference (Alliance League) again, but it’s not going to be easy this year with three solid teams; Lee, Potter’s House and West Michigan Aviation.”
South Christian’s lethal combination of Carson Vis and Jake Vermaas combined for 50 points to give the Sailors a 71-56 win over visiting Byron Center.
Vis led with 28 points, while Vermaas added 22.
“That was pretty special,” said South Christian Coach Taylor Johnson, whose team improved to 4-2 overall. “They’re our 1-2 punch.”
The pair also helped South Christian win a D-4 state championship in football this year.
“It was just a great team effort in a packed house, standing room only,” Johnson continued. “It was fun to see. I want to thank the fans for coming out after the holiday; both visitors and home fans.”
Byron Center was undefeated at 4-0 heading into the contest, coming off a win over Hudsonville.
The Sailors trailed by 12 points to end the first quarter and then grabbed the lead 37-33 at the half.
“It was a big win tonight for us to get to 4-2,” said Johnson, in his first year at South Christian.
Senior center also impactful
Johnson said Senior Sam Medendorp, a 6-foot-6 center, “was huge for us tonight, with tons of blocked shots and rebounds.
“He’s a tall, thin, shot-blocking athletic player who’s very unselfish. He does a great job of finding ways to impact the game defensively, and just does all the little things that help you win the game.”
Johnson said Medendorp has scholarship offers from Cleary University, Olivet College, Aquinas College and Grand Rapids Community College.
The Sailors open OK Gold conference play at Forest Hills Eastern on Friday.
Coach Johnson: a GVSU history and former state champion
Johnson previously was an assistant coach and interim head coach at Grand Valley State University, and played for Kalamazoo Christian during their 2008 Class C state championship.
Sophomore Sam Deutschmann scored 17 points to boost Zion Christian over visiting Grand Rapids Sacred Heart 55-27 Tuesday in girls basketball.
Coach Derek Foltice said Deutschmann, a first-time varsity player, is very athletic and does a good job on defense as well.
“It has taken her a couple of games to use her speed under control, and she’s really settling in and doing a great job,” said Foltice, whose Mountaineers improved to 5-3 overall. “We got off to a fast start. It was 15-4 after the first quarter.
“But the score makes it seem like a little more lopsided than it actually was. Sacred Heart has some really good players. We had to play well the whole time.”
Though Deutschmann led the way in this game, Foltice said his team has been trading scoring leaders this season.
“We’ve had multiple girls lead the way this year,” added Foltice, in his ninth year as coach. “We have a lot of girls willing to step up any given night. We’re trying to really focus on making our defense consistent as well.”
Junior Madi DeRuiter added 14 points for the Mountaineers, and Foltice said freshman Jayda Steenbergen also played a role in “really making things go defensively. She’s very feisty out there and made a couple really nice passes that helped us score.”
Zion Christian was 14-6 last year and 4-3 (fourth place) in the Alliance League, which was won by Potter’s House at 7-0.
“Potter’s House is definitely a force to contend with,” Foltice said. “But I love the energy that we play with. We’re getting better and better and playing at a pace that we like to play at.”
Potter’s House senior Isabelle Baez moves with the ball as Wyoming sophomore Menelia McGee defends. (WKTV)
In a finish that is frequently seen in the movies, Wyoming senior Aaliyah Ratliff hit a three-pointer in the last 18 seconds of overtime to give the Wolves a 54-51 win over host Potter’s House Christian in the championship of the ‘Battle of Wyoming.’
“It was back and forth, but we never gave up,” said Wyoming Coach Jesse Vasquez. “We didn’t play our best basketball, but the girls never gave up. We fought defensively. We fought on the glass. Aaliyah Ratliff didn’t have her best game, but she came up when it mattered.
“It was just the fight in the girls. We were down 10 with like five to go and they never gave up. They kept going and this is just who we are. You’re going to knock us down and we are going to keep getting back up and keep going after you. I am very, very proud of this team.”
A nail-biter to the end
It was a slow start to the championship game with the Potter’s House Pumas getting on the board at the 5:26 mark. With 2:45 left in the first quarter, Wyoming followed with a bucket. The first quarter ended 5-3 in favor of the Wolves.
From start to finish, The ‘Battle of Wyoming’ championship was an intense game with two local rivals. (WKTV)
In the second quarter, Wyoming turned on the heat, but Potter’s House matched suit and took the edge 18-16.
In the third, it was Potter’s House junior Anyieth Nhial that kept the Pumas on the winning edge with a 35-28 lead.
But Wyoming was not going down without a fight and when the dust settled at the end of the fourth, it was tied 46-46 with fans on both sides going wild and the teams heading into overtime.
Turnovers, fouls and finally Ratliff making the three-pointer would secure Wyoming’s win.
Shooting from the free thrown line. (WKTV)Potter’s House sophomore Anyieth Nhial makes her move with the ball. (WKTV)
Just a great game
“Man, what a fun atmosphere,” said Potter’s House Coach Jake Hoogstrate. “When we dreamed of this tournament 10 months ago, we never thought it would end like this: A great game.
“Both teams had a lot of chances to win and they made a shot and we didn’t get ours to fall. Props to them. Props to (Ratliff) for knocking them down. (Potter’s House) did everything they could to try and take her out of the game and she made the biggest shot of the game.”
Hoogstrate gave credit to the team’s two seniors, Isabelle Baez, whose calmness helped to stabilize the team and keep them focused, and Joy McClendon, who made several rebounds during the game.
“After that, it was a team effort,” he said. “A steal here, a steal there. A rebound here.”
For Wyoming, Vasquez said it was junior La’Anna Griffin and sophomore Shakya Anderson that kept the team going along with the bench, who were “phenomenal. When things weren’t going our way, they kept positive.”
It was all about Wyoming
Potter’s House Athletic Director Kara Haskill said the reason the school decided to host the event was because their girls basketball team’s schedule was bumped up from 20 games to 22 for the 2022-23 season.
Wyoming sophomore Aaliyah Ratliff with the ‘Battle of Wyoming’ trophy. (WKTV)
“We thought that a fun way to add in those two games was to have a holiday tournament,” Haskill said. “We wanted to include the teams in our area because they are teams we normally don’t play.”
Potter’s House is in the Alliance League. Godwin Heights and Kelloggsville, which are both in the OK Silver Conference, and Wyoming, the OK Green, signed up to participate.
Teams played an elimination round on Wednesday. From there, Wyoming and Potter’s House advanced to Thursday’s final.
“I never thought a team like Wyoming would come to play here,” Hoogstrate said. “It was a great atmosphere tonight. A big shout out to Kelloggsville, Godwin and Wyoming for helping to make this happen.”
“For me, it has been a lot of fun to be able to play against some of our local teams,” Vasquez said, adding, the turnout was “awesome.”
Honors and other scores
In the varsity consolation game, Godwin defeated Kelloggsville 55-28. The tournament all-star team was Godwin senior KaShari Babb, Kelloggsville sophomore Zariah Hatchet, Potter’s House senior Isabelle Baez and Wyoming junior La’Anna Griffin. Tournament MVP was Wyoming sophomore Shakya Anderson.
The tournament all-star team was (from left) Kelloggsville sophomore Zariah Hatchet, Potter House’s senior Isabelle Baez, Wyoming junior La’Anna Griffin, and tournament MVP was Wyoming’s sophomore Shakya Anderson. (WKTV)
The tournament also hosted a JV round that included JV teams from Wyoming, Potter’s House, Godwin Heights and Ottawa Hills, which substituted for Kelloggsville as the school did not have a JV girls basketball team. The winner of the JV tournament was Wyoming, which beat Ottawa Hills 59-29.
Wyoming cruised past Godwin Heights in the first ‘Battle of Wyoming’ girls basketball tourney opener on Wednesday.(WKTV)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Wyoming used its size and physicality to overpower Godwin Heights in the opening game of the first ‘Battle of Wyoming’ girls basketball tournament on Wednesday night at Potter’s House High School.
The Wolves secured a 65-45 victory as forward LaAnna Griffin recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Senior Aaliyah Ratliff added 12 points.
Wyoming sophomore Shakya Anderson goes in for a basket. (WKTV)
The frontcourt duo of Griffin and Shakya Anderson were able to establish their presence in the post and provided key baskets according to Wyoming coach Jesse Vasquez.
“Everytime Godwin would make a run we threw the ball into them and they made some good shots,” Vasquez said. “Which allowed us to get into our defensive sets after a make.
“I thought our defensive pressure causing problems and the way we rebounded really turned the game for us.”
Godwin tries to defend against Wyoming’s fast moving LaAnna Griffin (15). (WKTV)
The importance of this win could not be understated for the Wolves (4-3), who have already matched last year’s win total and have the look of a much improved team.
“To come out against Godwin, a school right down the road from us. A lot of the girls know each other.
“And to win a basketball game because of our effort and energy it’s huge for us.”
Battle of Wyoming championship Thursday
Wyoming faces host Potter’s House in the ‘Battle of Wyoming’ championship on Thursday at 7 p.m. The Pumas beat Kelloggsville in the other semifinal game, 58-31.
Coming off an 18-4 season last year, the South Christian girls basketball team will lean on two returning starters and some young talent to be in the mix again for another conference crown.
“I anticipate the OK Gold being a competitive conference as usual and only time will tell how things pan out,” said Coach Kim Legge, whose Sailors tied with Catholic Central atop the OK Gold at 13-1. “I am extremely excited about our future as I see us growing each and every day.
“We are gauging our progress one day at a time, but we love the progress these girls have made already.”
Senior leader Ashley Raredon. (Courtesy, South Christian)
Senior Ashley Raredon and junior Ashley Thomasma are the two returning starters.
“Ashley (Raredon) played big minutes for us last season and has stepped right back into that role, but with some added leadership skills,” said Legge, whose Sailors are off to a quick 4-2 start. “Ashley (Thomasma) has and will be a big contributor for us. The two of them have played together for two years now and work really well together.”
Junior Joelle Alferink, who saw limited minutes last season, “knows our system now after being on varsity,” Legge continued. “We have also added sophomore Lily Nitz and two freshmen, Sophia Prins and Lizzie Wolthuis to the regular rotation at this time.
“They all are capable shooters and can work the inside outside game well with Ashley Raredon.”
Legge said her players can really push each other in practice.
“They get after it and that is going to make us stronger as the season progresses.”
The West Michigan Aviation boys basketball team made its first trip to Kalamazoo Tuesday night well worth it with a 77-61 win over Kalamazoo Christian.
“We jumped out on them,” said Aviators Coach Austin Riebel, whose team improved to 2-2 overall. “The story in the first half is that we shot really well.”
Riebel’s son Luke scored 20 points before the half and ended up leading his team with 25. A junior and third-year varsity member, Riebel played alongside older brother Joey last year while dad coached. Joey is now playing JV basketball at Spring Arbor University.
Joseph May chipped in 14 points and 12 assists, while Ethan Dyksterhouse added 13 points and 10 boards.
“This was a great rebound win for us after a tough loss to Hopkins last Thursday,” Coach Riebel said. “They really shared the ball well tonight.
“We talked before the game about building our brand of basketball which is three things: physical, fast paced and playing together. They took a huge step in cementing this brand.”
It was the Aviators first time playing the Comets, which was Matt Dyksterhouse’s idea, a Kalamazoo Christian basketball alum and father to Ethan Dyksterhouse.
“It was cool for us to go there and play them,” said Riebel, of the 2-2 Comets.
As far as the Alliance League goes, Riebel said they’ve been very close the past two years, but Tri-unity and Potter’s House are “thorns in our side. We’ve had close battles with them.
“We’re definitely in that mix, but those two teams are very good, and Wyoming Lee is very good this year, too. We’ve got our work cut out for us.”
Tri-unity won the Alliance League at 8-0, followed by Potter’s House, 7-1 and West Michigan Aviation, 6-2.
(WMAA: Ethan Dyksterhouse, 23 points, 13 rebounds, 4 blocks; Luke Riebel, 13 points, 3 rebounds; Joseph May, 12 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals, 6 turnovers)
Lee at Grand River Prep
Grand Haven at East Kentwood
Godwin Heights at Belding
Hopkins at Kelloggsville
Tuesday, Jan. 17 Girls Basketball
Wyoming 48, Holland 33
(WY: Aaliyah Ratliff, 18 points; Michaela Moore, 10 points off the bench)
Kenowa Hills 54, South Christian 47
(SC: Ashley Raredon, 22. KH: M. Holman, 26 points)
Grand River Prep 50, Lee 27
(Kennedie Crawford, 19 points)
Belding at Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville at Hopkins
Potter’s House Christian 49, Muskegon Oakridge 35
Tuesday, Jan. 10 Girls Basketball
South Christian 61, Ottawa Hills 20
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 16 points, Ashley Thomasma, 15; Ottawa Hills: Semaj Robertson, 8; South Christian Coach Kim Legge, “It was good to have my whole team back and healthy.”)
Mona Shores 58, Wyoming 49 (see story)
Rockford 40, East Kentwood 28
NorthPointe Christian 60, Godwin Heights 48
Comstock Park 77, Kelloggsville 31
Potter’s House Christian 48, Saugatuck 37
Morley Stanwood at West Michigan Aviation
Zion Christian 50, Wyoming Homeschoolers 21
Tuesday, Jan. 10 Boys Basketball
West Michigan Aviation 69, Morley Stanwood 30
(WMAA: Luke Riebel, 14 points, 4 rebounds, 6 steals; Joseph May, 13 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists; Ian Brown, 11 points; Braeden Mowry, 8 points)
The Sailors emerged with a 78-60 win Tuesday night. (Courtesy, Ty Marzean)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Less than a month after winning a D-4 state championship in football, South Christian sophomore Carson Vis is doing his part to lead the Sailors on the hardwood.
Vis poured in 28 points to lead South Christian (2-2) to a 78-60 non-conference victory over Wyoming on Tuesday.
“Hit some tough threes early and he has great skill around the basket,” Sailors coach Taylor Johnson said. “He does a great job of getting to the rim.”
Carson Vis scored a game-high 28 points to lead the Sailors over Wyoming. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
The Sailors led by just two points after a quarter, but a 26-10 run in the second quarter extended their lead to 43-25 at the break.
The Wolves fought back, getting to within eight points in the fourth quarter, but South Christian was able to break the Wyoming press for some easy buckets to push its lead back to double-digits.
“I think the difference in the game was that they were just more physical than us,” Wyoming Coach Thom VanderKlay said. “It was an up and down game and they were able to finish their buckets.”
Seniors Alyjah Chandler and Quinton Williams led the way for the Wolves with 16 and 15 points, respectively. Sophomore Avonte’ Wiggins added 15 points.
Other high-scorers for the Sailors were Sam Weiss with 15 points and 6-foot-6 Sam Mendendorp with 12 points, who had two alley-oop dunks during South Christian’s run in the fourth quarter.
“They kept pressing us and we just kept trying to get the ball to the middle,” Johnson said. “Proud of the guys fight and we did what we needed to get the win tonight.”
The Sailors are on the road again this Friday for a rivalry game against Hudsonville Unity-Christian, while Wyoming (0-2) travels to Jenison.
In a tight battle right down to the wire, Grandville Calvin Christian pulled it out at the end, beating Potter’s House Christian 55-51 in girls basketball Tuesday night.
“It was a super fun game, back and forth, and came down to free throws at the end,” said Potter’s House Christian Coach Jake Hoogstrate, whose team fell to 1-4 overall. “We had our looks and had our chances. We’re definitely not putting our heads down after this one.”
A see-saw battle throughout, the Pumas led 51-49 down the stretch, until Calvin Christian (5-0) scored the last six points to close it out.
“It was a really competitive game,” said Hoogstrate, in his eighth year as coach. “I though both teams played really well. I think the best players on both teams stood out and did what they needed to do.”
Junior captain Anyieth Nhial led Potter’s House with 23 points.
Potter’s House junior captain Anyieth Nhial. (Courtesy, Jake Szetela)
“She played really well tonight,” said Hoogstrate, of his three-year varsity player.
Senior captain Isabelle Baez added 11 points, including 8 for 10 from the free throw line.
“Only one senior graduated last year and we feel really good about this season,” Hoogstrate said. “Starting Friday, everyone will be back at full strength. We have a tough road until the first of the year and we’ll see where we’re at after that.
“We look forward to defending the Alliance League championship.”
The Pumas were 7-0 in the league and finished 16-6 overall last year.
West Michigan Aviation Academy ran away from Kelloggsville for its second straight win on the season.(pxhere.com)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
West Michigan Aviation got off to a hot start in Kelloggsville and cruised to a 48-27 victory over the Rockets on Tuesday.
The dynamic duo of forward Ava Bazuin and guard Audrey Mileski led the way for the Aviators (2-3), as Bazuin led all scorers with 18 points and eight boards.
“She (Bazuin) was a rebounding machine tonight,” WMAA coach Tim Evans said. “It seemed like she was grabbing every board close to the rim and she really did a good job of rim-running.”
Mileski stuffed the stat sheet and recorded a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds, as well as four assists and five steals. The do-it-all point guard did most of her damage from the free throw line, going 10 for 13 from the charity stripe.
“I thought Audrey did a great job in spreading the ball around,” Evans said. “Tonight was really the most complete game we’ve played and she executed our offense well.”
With it being the opening game for a young Kelloggsville (0-1) team featuring a lot of first-year varsity players, Rockets coach Bilal Muhammad thought his team came out a bit slow.
“We had some first game jitters,” Muhammad said. “Just of a matter of adjusting to the speed of the varsity game for some of our players.”
WMAA will carry some momentum, after winning two straight games, into its next game at Muskegon Western Michigan Christian on Friday.
Kelloggsville looks to its next matchup with Wyoming on Dec. 20.
Though the Godfrey-Lee boys basketball team finished 5-16 overall last year, Coach Dominic Shannon said they were viewed by fans as one of the best as far as their will to fight.
“They were a very feisty 5-16 last year,” said Shannon, in his second year at Lee. “From fans and people that follow the school, I’ve heard last year was one of the best we’ve seen as far as their fight every single night.
“And we’re looking to move this program forward this year.”
Kelloggsville transfer Marc Whitfield, a junior, led the Legends with 21 points, five boards, four steals and three assists, while Joe Russau added 14 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.
“Whitfield is very passionate and intense,” Shannon said. “The team feeds off his energy and they definitely follow his lead.
“Russau can score from the inside and out and is one of the leaders on the team as well.”
Shannon said junior Clarence Lewis is a very aggressive defender and led in steals against Martin.
After winning a state championship last season, Tri-unity tipped off 2022-23 with a 55-22 win over Muskegon Orchard View. (pxhere.com)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Despite a sluggish start offensively, Tri-unity Christian found its rhythm in the second half to pull away from Muskegon Orchard View 52-22 in its season opener Tuesday.
Without two returning key starters from a 2021-22 D-4 state championship, as well as last season’s leading scorer and Division 4 player of the year Brady Titus, the Defenders spread the scoring load out as Owen Rosendall led the way with 11 points.
“I really liked how we shared the ball tonight,” Tri-unity coach Mark Keeler said. “We have some really good players, but no dominant scorers yet like we had in Brady.”
Returning guard Jordan Vanklompenberg missed tonight’s game with a hamstring injury, as well as returning center Hanif James. The 6-foot-5 big man could miss up to six weeks with an injury sustained during football season.
Tri-unity (1-0) leaned on its defense in a low-scoring first half and led the Cardinals (0-1) 17-11 at the half.
With some adjustments made in the second half, the offense began to flow according to Keeler.
“We kind of forgot what we were doing on offense in that first half,” Keeler said. “We came out a bit more patient offensively in the second and I think once our kids settled in we were able to run our sets.”
Filling in for James, Trey Rillema added 10 rebounds and three blocks, one of which came on a chased-down rejection that Keeler described as “amazing effort.”
Sophomore guard Katon Blanker had an efficient night as well with nine points.
“Our trademark is defense and I think we were able to get them pressing a bit which led to some easy buckets,” Keeler said. “It’s always an adjustment when you have guys out and guys playing in new roles.”
WKTV Game of the Week on Friday
The Defenders host Northpointe Christian on Friday at 7 p.m. in WKTV’s Game of the Week presentation.
Coming off a 4-17 season, the Wyoming girls basketball team is ready to turn the page, jumping out to a 2-1 record with a 45-28 road win over Comstock Park Tuesday.
First-year coach Jesse Vasquez said though they’re taking it one game at a time, the team has its sights set on competing for an OK Green championship.
“You have to have high goals and high standards to achieve big things,” said Vasquez, whose Wolves finished 1-13 in the conference last year. “I believe they’re buying into the things our coaching staff is preaching every day. The more success you have along the way the more you keep buying in and wanting to work.
“Last year was a rough year. This year, we’re getting there every day.”
Sophomore Shakya Anderson led Wyoming with 20 point and nine rebounds, including 16 points in the first half alone.
“She’s been pretty good the last two games,” Vasquez said. “She had 15 boards the second game of the year. She’s big in the post.”
Senior leader Aaliyah Ratliff, high scorer the first two games, added eight points against Comstock Park.
Sophomore Meneliza McGee led with four steals against CP and five against Coopersville earlier.
“McGee is a defensive catalyst,” Vasquez said. “She sets the tone for our defense.”
Freshman Myah Nabors added nine points and five assists.
“We have a lot of skill and it’s now just getting them to play together,” Vesquez said. “If we can believe in each other all the time, we’re going to be dangerous.”
The South Christian girls basketball team before a game from last season. The Sailors fell to Grand Rapids Christian 48-39 on Tuesday. (WKTV)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
After dropping its opener last week to Forest Hills Northern, the South Christian girls basketball team had the tall task of facing a tough Grand Rapids Christian squad on Tuesday night.
The Sailors hung around with the Eagles for four quarters, but ultimately a few defensive breakdowns and some untimely turnovers led to a 48-39 loss. Despite the loss, South Christian coach Kim Legge was pleased with the performance from her young team.
“We are making the progress that we have to make,” Legge said. “We are a young team that has freshmen and sophomores playing big minutes so we are still learning how to gel as a unit.”
One of those freshman was Lizzie Wolthuis who came off the bench to score a team-high 11 points for the Sailors. Lily Nitz and Ashley Raredon each accounted for five rebounds.
South Christian (0-2) trailed by just six at the break and fought to get within four points in the third quarter, but Katlyn LaRue’s game-high 15 points for Grand Rapids Christian (4-0) proved to be the difference.
The Sailors travel to Holland Christian on Thursday, while the Eagles have some time off before a Dec. 15 matchup with Bryon Center.
The 2022 South Christian Sailors cemented their legacy Friday night at Ford Field, as they finished a perfect 14-0 season and brought home the school’s fourth state championship en route to a 28-0 victory over Goodrich.
The Sailors defense was up to the task of shutting down a Martians offense that had scored 40 or more points in four of their last five games.
The South Christian football team celebrates with the MHSAA state championship trophy Friday night at Ford Field. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
South Christian held Goodrich to just 57 total yards in the first half, as the Sailors built a 14-0 lead on two Jake DeHaan touchdown passes.
The first of which came at the 9:48 mark, as Nate Brinks capped off the scoring drive with a 3-yard TD reception.
Another South Christian touchdown came with 5:48 left in the half, as DeHaan found Carson Vis for a 23-yard strike to extend the lead.
Sailors QB Jake DeHaan tosses to Nate Brinks for a touchdown in the D-4 state final Friday night. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Despite four turnovers by the Sailors, including a fumble by South Christian on its first play, Goodrich was unable to take advantage.
Sailors coach Danny Brown was pleased to see his defense complete the shutout on the big stage after flirting with shutouts throughout the season.
“We’ve had a heck of a defensive year, probably one of the best we’ve ever had,” Brown said. “We just don’t talk about it because of the numbers being put up by the offense.”
South Christian QB Jake DeHaan evades Goodrich defenders on his way to a touchdown. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
With the game still hanging in the balance, South Christian all but put it out of reach on a DeHaan 59-yard touchdown run to push the Sailors lead to 21-0 with just 5:53 left in the fourth quarter.
The All-State signal caller finished his final game as a Sailor with 220 yards on 14 of 18 passing with three total TDs, in addition to 94 yards on the ground.
A few minutes later, South Christian’s Jake Vermaas put to rest any chance of a miracle comeback with a 23-yard Pick 6 for the game’s final score.
Vermaas also starred on offense, making big catch after big catch for the Sailors and finished with a game-high seven receptions for 143 yards.
South Christian’s Jake Vermaas intercepts a Goodrich pass and returns it for a Sailors TD late in Friday’s D-4 state final. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
When the clock finally hit triple zeros, the celebration was on at Ford Field for South Christian as DeHaan reflected on a season he will not soon forget.
“You don’t even know what to feel and you don’t even know how to put it into words,” DeHaan said. “We believed it and we proved that we could do it.”
With the state championship clinched, Brown put his feelings into words on a mission accomplished.
South Christian’s Jake Vermaas had a game-high 143 receiving yards to lead the Sailors in Friday’s D-4 state final. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
“Going into the season, we knew we’d be pretty good,” Brown said. “But you never anticipate 14-0 and winning a state championship.
“All you’re looking at is the game ahead of you, the day ahead of you and you just replicate that success over and over again. The fact that happened over however many games and practices is amazing.”
Sailors QB Jake DeHaan connects with Seth Ritsema for a 21-yard touchdown in Saturday’s D-4 semifinal win over Edwardsburg. (Courtesy, David Kool)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Looking to advance to its first state final since 2014, South Christian seized control on the game’s first play with a 51-yard touchdown run by senior QB Jake DeHaan.
“Jake made a great read on the play,” Sailors coach Danny Brown said. “We got some good blocks at the next level and Jake found the open field.”
The Sailors never relinquished that lead, jumping ahead 20-0 in the first half, before holding onto a 26-20 Division 4 semifinal victory over Edwardsburg Saturday afternoon at Harper Creek High School in Battle Creek.
DeHaan accounted for all four South Christian touchdowns, with two through the air and two more on the ground.
The Sailors signal caller connected with Seth Ritsema on a 21-yard scoring strike to extend their lead to 14-0 early in the second quarter. DeHaan later found Carson Vis for a 40-yard touchdown to make it a two-score game in the fourth after the Eddies got within 20-14.
In total, DeHaan amassed over 200 total yards with 118 passing yards and another 91 rushing yards.
DeHaan rushes for a score in South Christian’s D-4 semifinal win over Edwardsburg. (Courtesy, David Kool)
Despite rushing for 267 yards and possessing the ball for 34 minutes of game time, Edwardsburg’s offense was shut out for most of the first half until a 2-yard TD run by Brett Allen with no time left in the half.
Allen ran for 122 yards to lead Edwardsburg’s rushing attack. Brenden Seabolt and Brendan Madison also added rushing scores.
Ford Field bound
Next stop is Friday at Ford Field in Detroit for the D-4 State title game. Brown put into words what it felt like as the final seconds ticked off.
“It was very emotional and I just thought of all the hard work our kids put in throughout the off season and this season.
“Really put into perspective what an opportunity it is to play for a state title.”
Unbeaten South Christian (13-0) will face a Goodrich (12-1) program playing in its first-ever state championship game. The Martians defeated Riverview 51-26 in their semifinal game on Saturday.
“We cannot wait to see the South Christian community come out in full force on Friday night in Detroit,” South Christian Athletic Director David Kool said. “Playing in this game is going to be a memory that all involved will never forget.”
Every MHSAA state championship game will be aired live on Bally Sports Detroit, including the Division 4 State Final being played Friday, November 25 at 7:30 p.m. Check out MHSAA.com for the complete schedule of games.
South Christian QB Jake DeHaan highlights the MHSFCA All-Region selections in the Kentwood-Wyoming area. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
The Michigan High School Football Coaches Association released their All-Region teams for the 2022 season as voted on by members of the MHSFCA.
Here are the following selections for players in the Kentwood-Wyoming area:
Division 1, Region 1
Stellan Bowman, JR, LB, East Kentwood
Division 4, Region 1
Camerson VanSolkema, JR, OL, South Christian
Carson Vis, SO, WR, South Christian
Seth Ritsema, SR, WR/TE, South Christian
Jake DeHaan, SR, QB, South Christian
Cam Post, SR, LB, South Christian
Nate Brinks, SR, Specialist, South Christian
Division 5, Region 2
Will Howard II, SR, DL, Wyoming-Kelloggsville
As you can see, South Christian was well represented in Division 4 with six total selections. The undefeated Sailors are preparing for their state semifinal matchup with Edwardsburg on Saturday.
East Kentwood’s Stellan Bowman, who played both halfback and linebacker this season, represented the Falcons on the All-Region team. (WKTV/Nathan Piers)
Stellan Bowman had a standout season at linebacker for the Falcons as East Kentwood made a return to the playoffs. Coach Tony Kimbrough mentioned Bowman as one of the returning players that the Falcons will rely on in 2023.
In Division 5, Kelloggsville senior Will Howard II was named to the All-Region team as a defensive lineman.
South Christian finds itself in a Division 4 semifinal game against familiar foe Edwardsburg this weekend for a chance to play in the state championship at Ford Field.
Last year, the Eddies (11-1) beat South Christian 28-14 in a regional final. This will be three times in three years the Sailors play Edwardsburg in the playoffs, and they’re hoping the third time’s the charm.
South Christian advanced to the state semifinals for the first time since 2014, the last time the Sailors won a state title.
Right after South Christian (12-0) knocked off Whitehall 28-21 to grab a regional championship last Friday, Coach Danny Brown said Edwardsburg is “obviously good and plays hard.”
“It will be a fun game and I’m sure the kids will be jacked up for it.”
Division 4 Semifinals
1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19 at Battle Creek Harper Creek
Edwardsburg (11-1) vs. South Christian (12-0)
The third time was definitely the charm last Friday as the Sailors advanced out of the regionals after three straight years trying.
Quarterback Jake DeHaan finished the game with four total TDs (three passing) and had 148 yards through the air and 88 on the ground.
Carson Vis led with three receptions for 46 yards, while Nate Brinks had four receptions for 18 yards and two touchdowns. Seth Ritsema added a receiving TD.
DeHaan and Austin Tiesma led with seven tackles apiece.
Check out South Christian’s game-winning touchdown against Whitehall. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Our WKTV truck has been busy all season long covering exciting high school football Games of the Week in the Wyoming/Kentwood viewing area.
If you missed a GOTW, or would like to watch one for a second time, be sure to see our 22nd Annual Turkey Bowl on Thanksgiving Day.
The 15-Hour Special, which starts at 9 a.m. Nov. 24, highlights most of our high school football Games of the Week. The Turkey Bowl is streamed live on the WKTV website at wktv.org or using this link: https://www.wktv.org/live25.html
Wyoming Athletic Director Ted Hollern summed it up best when describing No. 1 tennis player and senior Logan Bos.
“He’s not the big, glamorous state-ranked player, but for four years he’s been the leader of our tennis program and it’s fun to shine some light on him,” Hollern explained. “When you asked me to choose a student-athlete to write about, Logan was the first one that came to my mind, and we have many good athletes. I just admire his determination and the fight in him.
“He will be a big success in his future. His dedication and perseverance are going to serve him so well throughout college and his career.”
Lifelong lessons
Hollern said the most important thing in high school athletics is teaching the lifelong lessons.
“When you get knocked down, you pick yourself back up,” Hollern continued. “He had to go up against everyone’s best tennis player in the conference, and he showed a lot of grit and dedication.
“He’s been such a positive influence among the tennis players. He has quietly been one of the big leaders and has made a big impact on our tennis program.”
He has been No. 1 singles for Wyoming all four years and all-conference throughout as well, according to Hollern, who also calls Bos “an outstanding tennis player.”
Bos said his greatest trait on the tennis court is his hustle.
“I never run out of juice, even if my opponent is placing the ball with perfect precision and speed,” said Bos, who began tennis at age 6 with Smart Start Tennis at Wyoming. “I really enjoy being able to let all of my energy out when I hustle around the court. I feel like when I’m playing I have unlimited stamina and can maintain the same speed throughout all of the matches I play.”
His best tennis memory
“I was battling in a match against Sparta’s No. 1 singles last year in 99.5 degree heat index. The match lasted longer than two hours and eventually I won, beating him through two sets and a tiebreak, 5-7, 7-5, 10-4.”
Bos finished the season with a 7-10 record, and as Hollern explained, had to play every team’s No. 1 player all season long.
“As a team we didn’t win any matches, but many players were new to tennis and just seeing them grow as a group was fascinating,” said Bos, who also played baseball and soccer growing up. “One of our doubles teams got their first ever win against Ottawa Hills this season and that was an exciting experience for them.”
A brotherhood
“The Wyoming Wolves tennis team is like being part of a brotherhood. Everyone else thinks we are the underdogs when we go into a match and we just believe the motto of Wyoming versus everybody. We know we don’t have the best chance to go far, but we hustle as best as we can to keep up and maybe even sneak a few upset wins into the season.”
(Courtesy, Kelly Bos)
Favorite thing away from tennis
“My podcast on Spotify: Prairie Sports, named after the street Wyoming High school is located on and where me and my co-host Wyatt Hall discuss everything related to Detroit Sports,” said Bos, who has a 3.84 GPA. “Another thing I enjoy is partaking in Fantasy Football with my friends on Sleeper.
“I have always believed that I could create my own sports radio talk show about the Detroit Lions someday.”
Middle College Program at GRCC
Bos is in the Middle College program supported by Grand Rapids Community College.
“This program allows me to get my Associate’s degree and my high school diploma in my 13th year,” Bos said. “I am currently undecided on an exact career path, but will likely pursue my Bachelor’s degree at a local university following my 13th year.”
Check out South Christian’s game-winning touchdown. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
South Christian senior quarterback Jake DeHaan found Nate Brinks on a swing pass at the goal line for the game-winning touchdown with only 54 seconds left in a 28-21 regional final victory over Whitehall.
With both teams unbeaten at 11-0 coming into the matchup, as well as being the top two ranked teams in Division 4 according to the playoff points standings, the game certainly lived up to its billing.
Both defenses dominated the first half, giving up just a touchdown each as the game was deadlocked at 7-7 at halftime.
The Sailors broke the tie at the 6:40 mark in the third quarter on a crafty shovel pass by DeHaan to Brinks from 15 yards out to seize a 14-7 lead.
However, the Vikings fought back with TD runs by Jackson Cook and Nate Bolley to jump ahead 21-14 with 9:41 remaining in the game.
Less than three minutes later, DeHaan connected with one of his favorite targets in Seth Ritsema for a 16-yard score and knotted the game at 21-all.
South Christian QB Jake DeHaan connects with Seth Ritsema for a touchdown in Friday’s regional final. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Overall, DeHaan finished the game with four total TDs, 148 yards passing and 88 on the ground.
Forced to punt from inside their own territory on its next drive, Whitehall made the first major mistake of the night as a poor punt gave South Christian excellent field position to either run down the clock and attempt a game-winning field goal or score the go-ahead touchdown.
Sailors coach Danny Brown discussed the thought process on their final drive.
“Really, all we were thinking was how do we limit the time if they do get the ball and make them use up their timeouts,” Brown said. “Our kids did great and we made enough plays to make that happen.
“Once you get down there and close enough you have to score if the opportunity is there.”
All about redemption
For the Sailors, tonight’s game was about redemption after falling in the regional final each of the past two seasons. Brown described the feeling after the game as amazing.
South Christian poses with the regional championship trophy after Friday’s win. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
“This was the third year in a row for us in the regional final and we wanted to get over that hump, and we did, so it is great.”
South Christian advanced to the state semifinals for the first time since 2014, the last time the Sailors won a state title.
The opponent will be a familiar one as the Sailors face Edwardsburg (11-1) for the third-straight season in the playoffs. The Eddies knocked South Christian out in the regional final a year ago.
“I’m going to enjoy this one for the next 24 hours,” Brown said. “They’re obviously good and they play hard.
“It will be a fun game and I’m sure the kids will be jacked up for it.”
The semifinal matchup is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 19 with the game time and place to be determined.
The Sailors enter the field pumped up before the big game. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
The Godwin Heights boys soccer team captured the OK Silver crown this fall. (Courtesy Photo)
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
To Henry Lopez-Pinedo, soccer is more than just a game, it’s a passion.
“I love soccer because it’s a unique and one-of-a-kind sport,” said Lopez-Pinedo, a junior at Godwin Heights and varsity soccer player. “There can be hard moments and good moments, but this sport is something that will stick with me forevermore, a sport I will love more than anything.”
Henry Lopez-Pinedo with club team MFA Revolution during a college showcase game in June 2022. (Courtesy Federico Villafuerte)
As a center attacking midfielder for the Wolverines, Lopez-Pinedo led his team to an OK Silver Conference title as the top scorer in the league with 25 goals. He added one more in district play to finish with 26. He also had 16 assists this season for a Godwin Heights team that finished 13-0 in the conference, 15-2 overall.
While being undefeated in conference was a great accomplishment, Lopez-Pinedo said the highlight of the season was a home game against Calvin Christian. Teammate Abou Meshake crossed the ball in the box and Lopez-Pinedo knocked in a header.
“A lot of emotions ran through my mind because we haven’t beat Calvin in several years and this season we beat them twice,” Lopez-Pinedo said.
Not always his passion
“When I first started playing soccer, I didn’t like it at all,” Lopez-Pinedo admitted. “I was just a kid who loved playing with his toys.”
Lopez-Pinedo’s father, Leónides Lopez, an experienced soccer player in both Mexico and the United States, introduced Henry to the game by taking him to practices at the Olé Futsal Club. Lopez-Pinedo admitted to feeling nervous and not wanting to play.
Leónides spent hours on the field with his son, helping him hone his skills until Lopez-Pinedo’s nervousness began to fade.
“He made me work and work and did everything for me to be better than good,” Lopez-Pinedo said.
That work paid off with Godwin Heights’ success, and with four regional and three national wins with soccer club ABK.
His coach, Federico Villafuerte, has managed the girls and boys high school soccer teams at Godwin Heights for 12 years and founded the first soccer club for the middle school.
Henry Lopez-Pinedo practicing his skills. (Courtesy, Federico Villafuerte)
During his years at Godwin Heights, Villafuerte has led the boys varsity team to four conference titles in the last 10 years, which is no small feat considering the level of competition.
“To win it, you have to be perfect,” said Villafuerte, who built the program from the ground up.
But Villafuerte views soccer as more than just a sport — it also teaches life skills.
“What you learn from high school sports is sportsmanship; you are dedicated, you have to be responsible, and you learn how to listen.”
Villafuerte said one of the biggest skills he sees from high school sports players is learning how to deal with conflicts among players and how to lead as a team instead of individually.
Not all about soccer
Coach also keeps a close eye on his players’ grades.
“Two Es, you don’t play,” Villafuerte said. “Each week we check the grades, and we make sure they are not failing two classes.”
The belief that education is important extends past high school graduation.
“We try to encourage the students to go to college,” Villafuerte continued. “One like Henry, I see he’s got the possibility there.”
Lopez-Pinedo’s future hopes include college and playing on a college soccer team, and to play at the professional level as well.
Making time for what matters
Lopez-Pinedo’s interests include more than playing soccer. He also loves to run when he isn’t training or playing soccer and enjoys watching his favorite show The Perfect Chaos.
Family time also is a priority. His favorite family activity is taking walks together, looking at nature, and “just taking time with each other.”
Following your dreams is something Lopez-Pinedo encourages everyone to do.
“I just want to say for everyone who wants to achieve their goals, to sacrifice for the best, continue to keep working. Work or sweat ‘til your last breath.”
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
After getting a third-straight district championship last week with a 35-20 win over Unity Christian, South Christian faces undefeated Whitehall in a regional final Friday night at East Kentwood.
Both teams enter the contest with perfect 11-0 records and will have to perform at their best levels to advance to the state semifinals. Last Friday, Whitehall beat Fruitport 51-26.
“We expect when you get to this point in the season you gotta play good teams,” said South Christian Coach Danny Brown, after their win over Unity Christian. “If you’re chasing a state championship you want to beat good teams to get there.
“I know they have some athletes and are pretty big up front. It should be fun.”
Senior quarterback Jake DeHaan had five touchdowns against Unity, including 209 yards passing and 155 on the ground.
“You need your best players to shine in these moments,” Brown said. “Any big game we’ve had, he’s done it.”
Last year, the Sailors lost 28-14 to Edwardsburg in a regional final.
Look for our story after the game
Check out our story right after the Sailors’ big game, including highlight videos and pictures on late Friday night on the WKTV Journal.
South Christian Quarterback Jake DeHaan earlier this season. (Courtesy, Eric Walstra)
South Christian QB Jake DeHaan rushes for a touchdown during Friday’s district final. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
By Zach Fanko
WKTV Contributor
Led by senior do-it-all quarterback Jake DeHaan, South Christian triumphed over Hudsonville Unity Christian 35-20 to claim its third-consecutive Division 4 district title Friday night.
The Sailors wasted no time on the game’s opening drive as DeHaan connected with junior wide receiver Nate Brinks on a 15-yard scoring strike to seize a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter.
The Crusaders responded with a drive of their own as Mitch Tibbe found the end zone on a 6-yard quarterback-keeper, followed by a 2-point conversion to jump ahead 8-7 at the 2:10 mark in the opening quarter.
Both teams traded touchdowns on their next drives, knotting the game at 14-14 with 7:34 left in the half.
With halftime approaching, South Christian continued to move the ball against Unity Christian’s defense as DeHaan ran in a touchdown from 2 yards out to give the Sailors a 21-14 advantage at the half.
Following a scoreless third quarter, South Christian grabbed its first double-digit lead of the night on another DeHann TD run, one of his three rushing scores in the game.
Carson Vis makes a leaping grab in between several Unity Christian defenders. (WKTV/Zach Fanko)
Sailors coach Danny Brown commended his defense for the way they played in the second half.
“We knew they were going to come out swinging and it was one of those games where you have to dig deep,” Brown said. “I think our defense really stepped up in the second half and it ended up making the difference.”
The Crusaders tried to mount a comeback as Tibbe found his tight end Carl Bylsma for a 10-yard touchdown to make it 28-20 with 6:18 left.
However, a DeHann 37-yard touchdown run sealed the victory for the Sailors with 1:59 left. The senior signal-caller added five more touchdowns for an impressive 42 total touchdowns on the season.
DeHaan finished the game with 209 yards passing, as well as 155 yards on the ground.
“You need your best players to shine in these moments,” Brown said. “Any big game we’ve had he’s done it.”
South Christian celebrates with the district title trophy.(WKTV/Zach Fanko)
South Christian (11-0) returns to the D-4 regional final for the third-straight season. A year ago, the Sailors lost a battle with Edwardsburg 28-14.
This year, they will host another team with an unblemished record at 11-0. Whitehall, coming off a 51-26 win over Fruitport, stands in the way of a trip to the state semifinals.
The Sailors are seeking their first state title since 2014. The two undefeated squads battle next Friday at 7 p.m. at Falcon Stadium.
“We expect when you get to this point in the season you gotta play good teams,” Brown said. “If you’re chasing a state championship you want to beat good teams to get there.
“I haven’t watched much film on them. I know they have some athletes and are pretty big up front. It should be fun. We get another week to prepare and there’s nothing better than that.”
