By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Get an early glimpse of our WKTV Friday Night Highlights show right here! The Legends beat visiting Grand River Prep 89-68 Tuesday to win their first conference crown since 1980.
Be sure to watch the complete FNH show on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and ATT U-verse Channel 99.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
An 89-68 win Tuesday over Grand River Prep gave the Lee boys their first outright conference championship in 43 years … well before Coach Dominic Shannon was born.
“This is special,” Shannon said. “Our first outright conference championship since 1980 — I was born in 1986.”
Lee now sits atop the Alliance League at 7-0 and is 17-1 overall. Last year, the Legends were 2-6 in the league and 5-16 overall.
Shannon said he noticed last fall that the team had potential, and “with some grooming, could be good.”
“With a strong start to the season and the togetherness the boys began showing early in the season, our conversation as coaches began to shift to something great and something special,” Shannon explained. “We began the conversation of ‘leaving the mark,’ and now their team will forever be remembered.”
As far as the Legends win over GRP, Shannon talked about his unselfish team that has improved each game.
“We finished the game with 23 assists … we share the ball and enjoy sharing the ball, making it easy to coach,” he said. “Joe Russau and Marc Whitfield receive the majority of the press, rightfully so, but they would tell you just like I know that the team is a team. There have been a few games this year where we have five student-athletes in double figures and that’s a credit to our unselfishness.
“Ny’Zhem Marshall stands at 6-4 and nearly averages a double-double for us. Clarence Lewis is one of the best on-ball defenders in the state — Jr Metcalf is a talented freshman point guard with much potential and Leto Mena, with his willingness to stay ready and provide great energy for the team each night.”
Shannon said the coaches entered the season expecting to continue shifting the culture of the athletic environment at Lee High School.
“Me working in the school district is also having an impact as it’s allowing relationships to grow,” he explained. “By shifting the culture, we set expectations and hold each other accountable; student-athletes and coaching staff. Last year, our team didn’t perform in regards to our record, but I do believe the foundation was laid for the basketball program.
“I really credit my college coaching experience for my preparation of myself and of the coaching staff. We all perform well and it makes my job easy as the head coach. Capturing the outright conference title is huge and will drive us into March as we build towards the Breslin Center. We want to ride this momentum and continue our rebuild of the program.
“We want to be around for a while and plan to be around for a while.”
By WKTV Staff
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is requesting proposals for murals and 2D wall art applications to be displayed in the newly expanded $110 million Concourse A.
Designed by architect Jorge Barrero of HKS, Concourse A will mimic the experience of arriving in West Michigan. Artists should aim to complement West Michigan’s identity from the blues of Lake Michigan and the natural tans of the dunes to the grays and purples of the urban core to the greens of the forests and farmland in between.
“This new modernized concourse was designed to reflect the unique characteristics of our region,” said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. “Our design team was very intentional about creating opportunities within this new space to showcase the diverse talents of our local art community.”
The Concourse A project – part of the Elevate capital expansion program to enhance the Airport’s facilities and infrastructure – is designed to reflect the culture of the region. This $110 million extension will more than double the length and width of the existing concourse to meet the growing passenger demand for air travel.
New dining options, amenities, such as an executive lounge, and retail options will be located throughout the 90,000 square feet of new space.
Thanks to support from the Frey Foundation, the Ford International Airport will continue to invest in the local art community through its public art program. Concourse A will feature three art mediums, including custom terrazzo flooring, a suspended art installation and wall art.
Artists interested in submitting proposals for mural and 2D wall art can find more information at flyford.org/elevate/opportunities. Submissions are due March 26, 2023.
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
In their first meeting last month at Grand Rapids Catholic Central, the South Christian boys basketball team had the lead for much of the game, but couldn’t close the deal.
In the rematch at South Christian Tuesday evening, South Christian took the lead early and never looked back as the Sailors handed Catholic Central its first conference loss since 2017 with an 82-54 win.
“It was an unbelievable defensive effort,” South Christian Coach Taylor Johnson said. “Our defense set the tone. We came out and played some tough man-to-man defense the entire game. We also made some shots early and that always helps.”
As they did in January at Catholic, the Sailors jumped out to an early lead. They scored the first five points of the game and led 8-2 in the early going. At the end of the first quarter the Sailors were up 17-12.
“They (South Christian) were a lot more physical and were the tougher team tonight,” Catholic Central Coach TJ Meerman said. “Things were not going our way and our defense was not like it has been.”
Catholic Central was within three points in the early going in the second quarter when the Sailors began to heat up on the offensive end of the floor and ratcheted things down on the defensive end. Up 25-22, South Christian closed out the first half by outscoring Catholic Central 10-0 to take a 35-22 lead into the locker room.
Senior Sam Medendorp highlighted the run with a dunk that fired up an already pumped-up Sailor home crowd. Medendorp then capped the scoring just before halftime with an offensive rebound and putback that put the Sailors up by 13.
“This win is huge,” Medendorp said. “This is something I’ve wanted my entire high school career. We’ve come so close before. In my sophomore year we lost to them at the buzzer in the district and earlier this year at their place we lost by two after leading most of the game. This time we got on them early and never let up. This feels so good.”
South Christian came out in the second half and continued to keep the pressure on the Cougars both offensively and defensively. South went up 39-24 early in the third. Catholic Central cut the South lead to 47-34 later in the quarter, but the Sailors finished that quarter strong, and took a 55-36 advantage into the fourth.
South Christian sophomore Carson Vis, who led the Sailors in scoring with 24 points, helped lead the way in the third.
“This feels so good,” Vis said. “We played together as a team and didn’t let up the entire game. We rebounded really well and played some great defense. We knew they had something like a 77 game conference winning streak, but we worked so hard for this. We really wanted it.”
South Christian continued to build the lead in the final quarter as it was determined to not let the Cougars back into the game. South stretched the lead to 61-38 early in the fourth. The Sailors then outscored Catholic 14-6 to close out the game.
“They (Catholic Central) are an unbelievable team,” Johnson said. “They’ve won state championships, so we knew we had to play our best. We just wanted another shot at them after losing that first one. We’ve come so far as a team since the beginning of the season.
“We got out to a slow start with the football team playing for the state championship, but we’ve been coming together since then. We’re playing really well right now and if we stay humble and keep playing for each other we can get even better.”
Along with 24 from Vis, South Christian received 22 points from Jake Vermaas. Jake DeHaan added 14 points followed by Medendorp with 10.
With the win, South Christian improved to 12-1 in the OK Gold, 17-3 overall. The Sailors return to action Friday when they host Cedar Springs and then close out the regular season next Tuesday when they host East Kentwood.
Kaden Brown led Catholic Central with 27 points, while Durrel Brooks added 17. The Cougars fell to 12-1 in the Gold, 14-6 overall.
By WKTV Staff
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is pleased to announce that four local artists have been selected to install permanent terrazzo floor art designs in the $110 million Concourse A expansion.
Thanks to support from the Frey Foundation, the Ford International Airport will continue to invest in local artists through its public art program. The Concourse A extension – part of Elevate capital expansion program – will feature three art mediums, including custom terrazzo flooring, a suspended art installation and wall art. The four artists selected to feature their terrazzo designs include:
“We are thrilled to feature these talented artists, each of whom brings a unique viewpoint of West Michigan, in our newly enhanced and modernized Concourse A,” said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. “With millions of passengers passing through our Airport every year, we are delighted that the diverse talents of our art community will be showcased to all coming to our region.”
Each terrazzo design reflects a different aspect of West Michigan — from the blues of Lake Michigan to the natural tans of the dunes, the grays and purples of the urban core to the greens of the forests and farmland in between. Artists crafted designs to complement the physical context of the local region while also expressing the non-physical perception, diversity and unique identity of the larger West Michigan community.
George Eberhardt III, inspired by aspects of Katsushika Hokusai’s “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” referenced Lake Michigan and its water elements in his design that measures a diameter of 15 feet.
With a background in program development and curriculum design, Eberhardt focuses on enriching the lives of youth and diverse communities as an artist, muralist and art teacher. A previous ArtPrize® winner, Eberhardt’s mural work can be seen across West Michigan with pieces at Slows BBQ in downtown Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Public Schools, West Grand Neighborhood Organization, Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association, Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, among many others.
Kim Nguyen referenced the cities and towns of Grand Rapids and surrounding West Michigan areas while also including representations of Grand Rapids’ agricultural, medical and manufacturing industries in her design. Her installation will pay homage to our community’s former moniker, “Furniture City,” while winding the Grand River and Grand Rapids’ proximity to the shores of Lake Michigan.
“I am overjoyed and feel incredibly honored to be one of the artists helping new residents and future travelers see the beauty of our home through artwork beneath their feet,” Nguyen said. “I have always felt a fondness for airports because they bring me the thrill of travel, and in the case of Ford International Airport, the relieving feeling of being almost home.
“I have a photograph where I am two years old and meeting my three older brothers at Ford International Airport, it is there that I met them and my grandparents for the very first time. Though I was born in Grand Rapids, my family are refugees and immigrants from Vietnam, and I can’t imagine what they felt when they landed here in West Michigan.”
Maureen Nollette, inspired by a photograph she took of a Sand Cherry shrub on a roadside beach in Michigan, created designs to showcase the vastness of the Lake Michigan Dunes and the region’s native flora.
Nollette is currently the visiting assistant professor at Grand Valley State University in the department of Visual & Media Arts and was previously a resident artist for the Josef and Anni Alvers Foundation and Ngo Le Korsa Project in Sinthian, Africa, as well as for the Marble House Project in Dorset, Vermont.
Michael Pfleghaar recently completed a collection of plein air paintings which was translated into his terrazzo designs to replicate West Michigan’s natural forestry and agriculture.
Pfleghaar has permanent collections at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Steelcase, Inc., Herman Miller, the State of Michigan and Grand Valley State University. Apple, HBO, CBS, ForeSee, Hayworth and Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts are a few of the organizations that have utilized his illustrative artwork.
The four terrazzo designs will be installed in highly visible locations for direct interaction with passengers. The artists worked closely with contractor, Central Tile and Terrazzo Co., to ensure the terrazzo accurately matches their artistic intent.
The installation of the terrazzo art pieces is expected to be completed by June 2023. For more information about the artists and the capital expansion program, Elevate, visit flyford.org/elevate.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Lee 89, Grand River Prep 68
South Christian 82, Catholic Central 54
(SC: Carson Vis, 24 points; Jake Vermaas, 22. CC: Kaden Brown, 27 points)
Wyoming 50, Zeeland West 48
(WY: Quintin Williams, 13 points, 4 assists, 4 steals; Alyjah Chandler, 12 points, 3 rebounds, 4 steals)
Tri-unity 57, Pewamo-Westphalia 52
(TU: Keaton Blanker, 21 points, 6 assists; Jordan VanKlompenberg, 15 points, 5 assists, 7 rebounds; Roy Fogg, 10 points)
Potter’s House 76, Fruitport Calvary Christian 37
(PH: Quincy Winkle, 17 points; Malachi VerWys, 15)
West Ottawa at East Kentwood
Godwin Heights at Sparta
Calvin Christian at Kelloggsville
Zion Christian at Wellspring Prep
Potter’s House 55, Fruitport Calvary Christian 32
Calvin Christian 57, Kelloggsville 30
Catholic Central 53, South Christian 50
Zeeland West 48, Wyoming 40
Black River 58, WMA 34
Sparta 51, Godwin Heights 39
West Ottawa 53, East Kentwood 50
Grand River Prep 70, Lee 32
Zion Christian at Wellspring Prep
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights, February 17!
Every Friday, we’ll bring you some great high school boys and girls basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, highlight some top performers and give a snapshot of the latest conference standings.
Thanks for watching, and see you next Friday!
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
While the Wyoming girls basketball team came up short in a 50-44 loss Friday against league rival Muskegon, the game was another positive step forward for a Wolves team that is making substantial progress this season.
Last season, Wyoming finished with a 4-18 record. With two regular-season games left on the schedule, the Wolves are just one win away from tripling last year’s win total.
“We have been making tremendous progress,” said first-year Wyoming coach Jesse Vasquez. “These girls have been working hard every single day. They want to get better. They are a great group to coach and it’s great to see the love they have for each other and the love they have for the team.”
Vasquez also said the Wolves hate to lose, and that was evident during Friday’s game with Muskegon. Despite trailing by 13 points to Muskegon at halftime, the Wolves were not about to give in and battled the Lady Reds to the final seconds.
“Overall, we had a great second half,” Vasquez said. “Muskegon did a real good job of taking away our inside game in the first half. During the second half we concentrated on getting the ball inside. When we get the ball inside good things happen.”
Trailing 25-12 at the half, Wyoming began to chip away at the Muskegon lead during the second half. Senior Aaliyiah Ratliff hit a pair of three-point shots to loosen up the Muskegon defense and get some momentum going for Wyoming early in the third quarter.
Down 34-21 halfway through the third quarter, the Wolves went on a 6-0 run to cut the Muskegon lead to 34-27 by the end of the quarter. Shakya Anderson scored all six of the points as she was able to get the ball in the paint. Anderson closed out the scoring with a traditional three-point play after getting fouled on a basket in the lane with 1:32 remaining in the quarter.
Muskegon turned up the pressure in the early minutes of the final quarter and was able to rebuild the lead to double digits. Wyoming, however, refused to fold and rallied in the final four minutes of the game. Trailing 45-30 with less than four minutes to go, the Wolves closed out the game by going on a 14-5 run. Ratliff again started the run with a trey. The Wolves then pounded the ball inside to Anderson and La’Anna Griffin with the duo combining to score nine of Wyoming’s final 11 points.
“They (Wyoming) hung in there,” said Muskegon Coach Bernard Loudermill. “My girls did a real good job of containing them early and we continued to be patient on offense.”
Muskegon was led on offense by freshman guard Mariah Sain who finished with 19 points while fellow freshman Aaliyah Winston added nine points for the Lady Reds who improved to 13-7 overall and 10-2 in the conference.
“At the end of the day, it feels good to get a tough conference win like this,” Loudermill said. “It’s always good when you can get a win on the road, especially at a tough place like Wyoming.”
Anderson led Wyoming with 15 points, followed by Ratliff, 11; and Griffin, seven. Anderson and Griffin also led the Wolves in rebounding with seven apiece.
Vasquez also was pleased with how the Wolves played defensively against a Muskegon team that features plenty of talented offensive players.
“Defense has been our M.O. all year,” Vasquez said. “As long as I’m the coach here that is going to be how it is. We are going to play tough defense. Offensively, I think we moved the ball well, especially in the second half. In the first half I thought there was a little too much dribbling.”
While the Wolves were disappointed with the loss, the overall experience gave the team more reason to be optimistic about the future, especially with just two seniors on the roster.
“The future looks bright,” Vasquez said. “When me and my assistant Cody (Browneye) took over we knew the cupboard was not bare, it was fully stocked. We just had to coach them up. We are very excited about how the season is going and how the future looks.”
Wyoming closes out the regular season next week with a pair of games. The Wolves are at Zeeland West on Tuesday and return to Zeeland on Friday to take on Zeeland East.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
West Michigan Aviation 75, Wellspring Prep 38
(WMA: Joseph May, 19 points, 17 in the first half; Ethan Dyksterhouse, 18 points, 13 rebounds)
Tri-unity 68, Zion Christian 32
Lee 83, Fruitport Calvary Christian 63
(LEE: Joe Russau, 26 points, 15 rebounds, 4 blocks; Marc Whitfield, 18 points; Ny’Zhem Marshall and Troy Fox, 12 points apiece)
Muskegon 74, Wyoming 50
(WY: Quintin Williams, 27 points, including 9 Threes)
Potter’s House at Muskegon Catholic Central 7 pm
South Christian 72, Wayland 34
(SC: Carson Vis, 16 points; Jake Vermaas, 14)
Belding at Kelloggsville 7:30 pm
East Kentwood at Caledonia 7:30 pm
Godwin Heights at Hopkins 7:30 pm
Muskegon at Wyoming 7 pm WKTV Friday Game of the Week
Muskegon Catholic Central at Potter’s House 5:30 pm
West Michigan Aviation 50, Wellspring Prep 18
(WMA: Audrey Mileski and Ava Bazuin, 15 points apiece; Amber Hilbrands, 7 points)
East Kentwood at Caledonia 6 pm
Belding at Kelloggsville 6 pm
Godwin Heights at Hopkins 6 pm
Lee at Fruitport Calvary Christian 6 pm
Wayland 47, South Christian 39
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 12 points; Lily Nitz, 10. WAY: M. Terry and H. Laker, 15 apiece)
Zion Christian at Battle Creek Calhoun Christian 6 pm
By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributor
Extraordinary price hikes on eggs over the past year and continuing inflation costs have had consumers and local business owners concerned.
340 Million: Prior to the avian influenza outbreak in 2022, that was the number of laying hens across the United States. 15 million of those hens could be found in Michigan.
Those numbers average one hen for every consumer in the country.
“For every citizen in the United States, there was one laying hen,” said Ernie Birchmeier, Senior Relations Specialist with the Michigan Farm Bureau.
Since the avian influenza outbreak, however, over 58 million birds were affected countrywide, creating a hitch in egg production that resulted in higher prices for one of the country’s main staples.
In January of 2022, the average cost of a dozen large Grade A eggs was $1.93. During the past year, consumers were hard pressed to find a dozen of those same eggs for under $5.
“We lost about 45 million laying hens across the country from that influenza outbreak. That has had an impact on the size of the laying flock in the United States and has decreased egg production,” Birchmeier said.
Various strains of avian influenza are an annual occurrence.
“Typically, when you have an avian influenza outbreak, it is spread during the spring and the fall when wild birds migrate back to the north from the south and vice versa in the fall,” Birchmeier said. “When you co-mingle those birds, they bring different sets of diseases and will typically cause an influenza outbreak.”
The number of birds affected by influenza is not normally so high. So why was the bird population hit so hard in 2022?
“In 2022, (avian influenza) lasted all year, during both seasons,” Birchmeier said. “So it’s continued to have an impact.”
When will egg prices decrease?
Birchmeier said there have been reports of consumers seeing a softening in egg prices, with many lowering to more normal levels. But he cautions that it will take time to see a significant change.
“It takes time for eggs to be set, then for those eggs to hatch,” said Birchmeier, relaying that birds are typically 5-1/2 months old before they start laying. “It’s going to take time to replenish those flocks.”
Consumers are urged to remember that labor, transportation and energy costs also are up and that factors into the cost of food along with the influenza outbreak.
There was a general food inflation of around 20 percent in 2022. Add in the impact of a reduction in egg production, and it influences those prices even more.
“If we can get through spring without any major problems, and farmers can replenish those flocks, we should see a decrease, a softening, of egg prices back down to more normal levels,” Birchmeier said. “It’s just going to take time for supply to catch back up (with demand).”
For many local businesses, eggs are a staple — one needed in abundance.
“It’s hard to be a breakfast place (right now),” said Delanie Haisma, a server at Anna’s House restaurant. “That’s a common thing that we supply.”
But Haisma also said that the post-pandemic general inflation is what has had the biggest impact on their business.
When asked if Anna’s House has increased prices due to rising egg prices, Haisma said, “Since the eggs have gone up, no, but about a month before that happened, we did raise our menu prices by 25 to 75 cents on a couple of items.”
Continuing supply issues also have had a large impact.
“It’s hard to keep stuff in stock, and sometimes we have to go through a third party,” Haisma explained.
Other local restaurants also have had to adjust menu pricing due to general inflation.
Real Food Café recently instituted a three-percent surcharge to all checks to offset fast-rising expenses, including rising employee wages, fuel charges, and the escalating cost of food and other goods.
Even though rising prices have stunned most consumers, Birchmeier urges buyers to consider the true value of a dozen eggs priced at $5. “That’s still a pretty good value when you consider the amount per egg. Forty cents per egg is still a pretty good value compared to a lot of foods.”
Perspective also plays a role in remembering the value of a product: “Five dollars for a dozen eggs versus $5 for that cup of coffee you stood in line and waited for,” Birchmeier said.
Birchmeier went on to say that although the entire United States has been impacted by the influenza outbreak, Michigan as a whole has been spared any major outbreaks in our laying flock, and that other areas of the country are paying more for eggs than Michiganders.
“We are very fortunate in this country to have the food supply that we do,” Birchmeier said. “And we have choices. And we have the ability to shop around.”
Birchmeier encourages consumers to shop around for better prices than what they may find at their usual store.
“Very seldom do we ever have to worry about whether or not there is product on the grocery store shelf,” Birchmeier said. “We saw that for the first time in many people’s lives in our country during the pandemic. But our farmers are out there every day to make sure that we have a wholesome and abundant food supply in this country.”
Egg-laying facilities have tight bio security measures implemented by farmers that have been in place for many years. Because of these extra steps, Michigan has been spared major outbreaks in our laying flocks.
Controlling traffic flow on and off the farm, regulating the number of visitors to the farm, and making sure trucks are cleaned as they enter and leave the farm, are all steps Michigan farmers have taken to diligently keep diseases from their flocks.
“Our farmers know they need to protect the birds inside those buildings,” Birchmeier said. “For their livelihood, but also to make sure that they are producing a (safe) product for the consumer.”
With emotions running high and bank accounts running low, Birchmeier warns against incorrect theories about causes for the egg price hike.
“We have to be very careful about everything we read on the internet and social media and make sure that we are getting accurate information rather than potential theories.”
There are other factors as to why chickens may not be laying eggs. In the winter months, it is common for chickens to go into a molt, or molting process, during which it is typical for chickens to stop laying eggs.
Regardless of the reason, Birchmeier said it is important to remember that production and distribution systems are already set and in place no matter how much farmers produce in a year.
“If there is a chink in the armor, or a link in the chain that’s broken, that’s when we run into disruptions,” he explained. “A lot of our consumers don’t understand that because we never have to think about it. (Food) has always been there.”
“Relative to the rest of the world, we are in a fantastic position here in the United States to have a wholesome, abundant, affordable food supply typically all of the time,” Birchmeier said.
He explained the importance of understanding that farmers are greatly impacted by all this as well.
“We’re feeling the brunt of high labor, high energy costs, as well, across our food production system. But farmers themselves can’t pass those costs on, they have to absorb them, versus other manufacturers and goods and services (that) typically add those costs on and pass them along to the consumer. We see our ups and downs in the agricultural department from an economic standpoint as well.”
Birchmeier strongly encourages consumers to know the facts before jumping to conclusions, and to ask farmers if they have questions.
“We are glad to share our information because we’re all together in this.”
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
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Get an early glimpse of our WKTV Friday Night Highlights show with these exciting clips and interviews from our Tuesday WKTV Game of the Week: Muskegon Catholic Central at Lee boys. The Legends beat visiting MCC 69-58 to stay atop the Alliance League at 5-0, 15-1 overall.
Be sure to watch the complete FNH show on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and ATT U-verse Channel 99.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Lee junior Marc Whitfield had 34 points and six assists to help the Legends beat visiting Muskegon Catholic Central 69-58 Tuesday.
The win kept Lee securely atop the Alliance League at 5-0 (15-1 overall), followed by West Michigan Aviation at 5-2, 10-6.
Ny’Zhem Marshall added 14 points and 3 blocks, while Joe Russau had 12 points, 9 rebounds and 2 blocks.
“Marc plays the game with much passion and leads on the court with his actions,” said Lee Coach Dominic Shannon. “Against MCC Marc really willed our team to a conference win by remaining aggressive offensively.
“All season Marc has been productive with scoring and creating for others. We’re at our best when he can get into the open court and create.”
Shannon, however, said his team didn’t play its best basketball against Muskegon Catholic Central, at least in the first half.
“Many defensive blunders as MCC shot and made several open 3-point attempts in the first half, leading to a 27-27 score at halftime,” Shannon explained. “Our message to the boys at halftime was clear, respond and let’s play our style of basketball. Minutes into the third quarter we were active, creating fast breaks with our defense and were up 10 points very quickly.
“I think we responded to the adversity well … a few things to clean up in practice this week as we head to Fruitport Calvary on Friday.”
Shannon talked about other players pitching in for the Legends.
“At 6-3, Joe Russau has been a constant force inside and out as he has been relentless on the glass, blocking shots and showing the versatility in his game,” Shannon said. “Ny’Zhem Marshall has grown much this season and is gaining confidence at the right time. At 6-4, He’s been knocking down his outside shots at a good rate as of late and aiding Joe with protecting the paint. He has a lot of upside and is excited he’ll be returning next year. Excited for his future development.
“We think Clarence Lewis is one of the top on-ball defenders in the state of Michigan. Each night we give him the assignment of guarding the team’s best perimeter offensive player. Now, it may be hard to shut someone down, but Clarence does give tremendous effort each night to do so and make the other team’s best player earn his respect.”
Lee has definitely turned things around this year. Last season, the Legends finished 2-6 in the Alliance, 5-16 overall.
“Considering the previous state of the basketball program here at Lee, it feels good but the job isn’t done so we are not yet satisfied,” Shannon said. “The last conference championship for Lee was in 1980, and we’re a couple games from an outright conference crown. We control our destiny.
“The first priority is to secure the conference and then put on our dancing shoes as we head into March. The last state championship was 1960, and honestly we have our sights set on the Breslin Center.”
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
It wasn’t the start the East Kentwood basketball team had in mind when it traveled to Grand Haven Tuesday night, but the ending was exactly what the Falcons were looking for in the matchup of two of the four teams that entered the evening tied atop the OK Red standings.
After trailing 10-0, East Kentwood battled back to claim a 53-47 win on the road and end the night sharing the top spot in the conference with Hudsonville.
“Grand Haven jumped out on us pretty good,” said East Kentwood Coach Mike Thomas. “We came out flat and they took advantage of it.”
East Kentwood weathered the early storm of the Buccaneers and began to right the ship as the first quarter progressed. By the end of the first eight minutes the Falcons managed to whittle the deficit to 17-10.
“We made a few substitutions and we started hitting some shots,” Thomas said. “Christian Humphrey came off the bench and hit 3 three-point shots and Landon Storms hit two more threes. We did a good job of getting back into the game.”
East Kentwood continued to wrestle away control of the game during the second quarter. With the offense beginning to cook and the Falcon defense turning up the pressure, East Kentwood tied the game at 21 at the end of the first half.
East Kentwood’s defense was led by senior Marshaun Flakes, who was given the defensive task of slowing down Grand Haven standout Harrison Sorrelle. Sorrelle came into the game with a string of 20-point plus scoring efforts to his credit.
“Marshaun did an unbelievable job of shutting down Sorrelle,” Thomas said. “He is one of the leading scorers in the league and Marshaun held him to eight points. That was a huge part of our success in the second half.”
East Kentwood took over the lead in the game during the third quarter, and heading into the final eight minutes of the game the Falcons were up 35-32.
Grand Haven battled back during the final quarter and cut the lead to two points before the Falcons pulled away at the end.
“Grand Haven is a very, very tough team,” Thomas said. “They are a tough team to put away and we have to tip our hats off to them. We had to hit some timely free throws at the end and come up with some timely defensive stops and steals.”
East Kentwood used a balanced effort on the offensive end of the floor to key the win. The Falcons were led in scoring by Darryl Thompkins Jr. and Flakes who both scored 12 points. Humphrey added 11 points followed by Storms with eight.
The return to the lineup of Humphrey, a 6-foot-8 senior, provided the Falcons with a big boost in the conference road showdown. Humphrey had missed the previous three weeks with an ankle injury that he suffered against Caledonia.
With the win, East Kentwood improved to 8-3 in the OK Red and 13-5 overall. The win also was the fourth in a row by the Falcons who continue to build momentum as the state tournament draws closer.
“It’s perfect timing,” Thomas said. “Our goal is to have everything going by the time we get to March. “We are trying to create momentum going into March. We have a four-game winning streak and we want to keep adding to it and building momentum.
“It’s all about getting ready for March and playing our best basketball in the tournament. The guys are buying in and they believe we can do something special in the tournament.”
East Kentwood’s win at Grand Haven combined with Hudsonville’s win against Grandville Tuesday evening leaves the Falcons and Hudsonville tied for the top spot in the OK Red with 8-3 conference records. Both teams have two more conference games remaining before they close out the conference season playing each other at East Kentwood on Friday, Feb. 24.
“We play Hudsonville on that final Friday,” Thomas said, “and if we take care of business, it can all come down to that game.”
East Kentwood returns to action Friday when it travels to Caledonia. The Falcons then host West Ottawa next Tuesday with the showdown against Hudsonville scheduled three days later.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Lee 69, Muskegon Catholic Central 58 WKTV Tuesday Game of the Week
Potter’s House 69, Zion Christian 29
(PH: Malachi VerWys, 17 points)
Tri-unity 63, West Michigan Aviation 38
(TU: Owen Rosendall, 18 points; Jordan Vanklompenberg. WMA: Joseph May, 15 points; Luke Riebel, 11 points; Ethan Dyksterhouse, 8 points, 7 rebounds)
East Kentwood 53, Grand Haven 47
(EK: Darryl Thompkins Jr. and Marshaun Flakes, 12 points apiece; Christian Humphrey, 11 points, including 3 treys)
South Christian 87, Kenowa Hills 34
(SC: Sam Medendorp, 28 points, a career high)
Wyoming 58, Holland 49
(WY: Maxi Morales, 15 points, 7 rebounds; Quintin Williams, 14 points)
Grand River Prep 65, Fruitport Calvary Christian 64
(GRP: LJ Cambric, 21 points, 13 rebounds, 2 blocks; Jaydon Weddle, 18 points, 5 rebounds; Julian Hardy, 16 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists)
Godwin Heights 50, Belding 35
Kelloggsville at Hopkins
Wyoming 55, Holland 15
(WY: Aaliyah Ratliff, 18 points; LaAnna Griffin, 10 points, 12 rebounds; Shakya Anderson, 8 points, 8 rebounds off the bench)
Potter’s House 39, Zion Christian 32
Grand River Prep 60, Fruitport Calvary Christian 55
Muskegon Catholic Central 40, Lee 21
Hopkins 53, Kelloggsville 31
Belding 65, Godwin Heights 56
South Christian 43, Kenowa Hills 30
East Kentwood 40, Grand Haven 39
By WKTV Staff
Woodland Mall will host the second annual Unity Walk to Honor Martin Luther King Jr. with the City of Kentwood and the ninth African American Live Museum with New Hope Baptist Church on Saturday, Feb. 25.
To kick off the day’s events, community members are invited to gather at the food court inside Woodland Mall, 3195 28th St. SE, at 11 a.m. for a walk that will end in front of Von Maur at 11:30 a.m. A ceremony will immediately follow and feature welcoming remarks from Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley, a proclamation presented by various community members, live music and refreshments.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to again host our Unity Walk to Honor MLK at Woodland Mall,” Kepley said. “It will be the start to a great day celebrating the life and work of Martin Luther King Jr., as well as other leading African American figures through New Hope Baptist Church’s Live Museum. We welcome community members of all ages to join us.”
The Unity Walk will be followed by the African American Live Museum presented by New Hope Baptist Church. Starting at 1 p.m., community members can witness more than 25 live performances featuring notable African American figures throughout history and in current culture across several areas, including politics, sports, science, arts and entertainment. Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald and Judge Kentaji Brown Jackson will be among the legends appearing throughout the mall until 5 p.m.
A distinguishing factor of the Live Museum is how the performers, ranging in age from 10 to 66, bring their persona to life by adopting mannerisms of the legendary figures they are portraying while sharing facts and stories from their lives. Visitors can watch and listen to the performances to learn about the figures and enjoy the realistic depictions.
“The African American Live Museum is one of our outreach ministries with the intentionality of relationship building,” said Dr. Cathy Large, drama ministry leader of New Hope Baptist Church. “This is a great opportunity to help educate the community about the historic achievements of Black Americans and to share the wonderful talents of our performers.”
The Live Museum was an annual event for many years at the mall until the pandemic. Mikia Ross, interim senior marketing director for Woodland Mall, says the mall is thrilled for its return, along with the continuation of the Unity Walk.
“We are proud to partner with the City of Kentwood and New Hope Baptist Church to offer these impactful events,” Ross said. “Both will give our guests the opportunity to learn through personal connections and interactive experiences.”
For more information about the Feb. 25 events at Woodland Mall, visit ShopWoodlandMall.com/events.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights, February 10!
Every Friday, we’ll bring you some great high school boys and girls basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, highlight some top performers and give a snapshot of the latest conference standings.
Thanks for watching, and see you next Friday!
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
If Friday’s result is any indication, opponents of East Kentwood might thick twice about coming out in a zone defense against the Falcons.
Thanks to some accurate outside shooting and timely drives to the basket, East Kentwood’s offense reached overdrive in the second half as the Falcons defeated Grandville 73-58 in an OK Red showdown of conference frontrunners.
“I thought this was a good game for us,” said East Kentwood Coach Mike Thomas. “Our guys struggle against a zone, but they showed tonight they are starting to figure the zone out. This is the largest amount of points we’ve scored against a zone in a long time.”
The 73 points the Falcons scored Friday was almost double the amount of points they scored a month ago when the Falcons dropped a 48-41 decision to Grandville on the road. The win also crowded things at the top of the OK Red as East Kentwood, Grandville, Grand Haven and Hudsonville are all tied for the top spot in the league with 7-3 conference records.
East Kentwood was especially productive against the Grandville zone defense in the second half. Trailing Grandville 32-27 at halftime, East Kentwood outscored the Bulldogs 46-26 in the second half.
East Kentwood stormed out of the locker room at the start of the second half to outscore Grandville 20-5 and take control of the game. Senior Marshaun Flakes led the charge in the second half as he scored Kentwood’s first seven points of the third quarter.
“This was big,” Flakes said. “The last time we played them (Grandville) we started slow. Tonight, we came out with a lot more energy and intensity. We really brought the energy in the second half.”
East Kentwood brought plenty of defensive energy to the floor in the second half. Steals on the defensive end led to some layups on the offensive end of the floor. Both Flakes and Jaden Bowman came up with big steals in the early going in the third quarter as the Falcons took the lead in the game.
“It’s always our defense that gets us going,” Thomas said. “Our defense has kept us in every game. We also made some defensive adjustments at halftime.”
On the offensive side of the floor, the Falcons sliced apart the Grandville zone with a combination of accurate shooting from the perimeter and timely drives to the basket. East Kentwood connected on seven three-point shots during the game. Jamell Hatchett led the way from outside as he connected on three, three-point shots while Rasheed Watkins hit a pair of treys.
Balance also was a key for the East Kentwood offense. Hatchett and Flakes led the way for the Falcon offense as they both totaled 19 points. Darryl Thompkins poured in 15 points, while Watkins added 12.
A standout on both ends of the court, Flakes also was instrumental in providing the Falcons with strong leadership, especially coming out in the second half facing a five-point deficit.
“Marshaun was unbelievable tonight,” Thomas said. “He is the leader of our team. I’ve been coaching for a while now and have had some great leaders. Like I told my wife, Marshaun is one of the top leaders I’ve ever had.”
That leadership was evident in the early stages of the fourth quarter when Grandville made an effort to get back into the game. Up 49-43 at the end of the third quarter, Grandville whittled the Kentwood lead to 51-47 before Flakes drained a pair of free throws to stem the tide.
Grandville managed to cut the Falcon lead to 53-49, but a three-point shot by Watkins started a 7-0 Falcon run that built their lead to 60-49 with five minutes left in the game. Grandville managed to cut the Kentwood margin to 60-52, but that was as close as the Bulldogs would get as Kentwood pulled away in the final few minutes of the game.
“This was a big win for us,” Flakes said. “This win will give us some momentum going into March.”
With the win, East Kentwood improved to 11-5 overall. The Falcons return to action Saturday when they travel to Benton Harbor to play Detroit Old Redford in the Wilson Chandler Shootout. The Falcons then travel to Grand Haven on Tuesday to face another team that is part of the logjam at the top of the conference standings before heading to Caledonia on Friday.
Grandville fell to 10-6 overall and 7-3 in the league. The Bulldogs were led in scoring by Tyson Mann who finished with 31 points.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
East Kentwood 73, Grandville 58 WKTV Game of the Week
Lee 62, Tri-unity Christian 59
(LEE: Marc Whitfield, 21 points; Joe Russau, 19, 7 rebounds; Clarence Lewis, 11 points)
Reeths-Puffer 79, Wyoming 63
(WY: Avonte Wiggins, 23 points; Alyjah Chandler, 18)
WMA at Zion Christian
Grand River Prep at Saranac
Potter’s House at Covenant Christian
Calvin Christian at Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville at Sparta
Thornapple Kellogg at South Christian
East Kentwood 63, Grandville 44 WKTV Game of the Week
Zion Christian 56, West Michigan Aviation 51
(ZC: Josie Doezema, 19 points; Sam Deutschmann, 12.; Madi DeRuiter, 10. WMA: Ava Bazuin, 22 points; Audrey Mileski, 21)
South Christian 59, Thornapple Kellogg 29
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 17 points; Ashley Raredon, 11. TK: Jordan Pranger, 11)
Calvin Christian at Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville at Sparta
Wyoming at Reeths-Puffer
Grand River Prep at Saranac
Potter’s House at Covenant Christian
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Get an early glimpse of our WKTV Friday Night Highlights show with these exciting clips and interviews from our Tuesday Game of the Week: Mona Shores at Wyoming Boys. The Wolves beat visiting Mona Shores 71-58.
Be sure to watch the complete FNH show on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and ATT U-verse Channel 99.
By WKTV Staff
The Wyoming Department of Public Safety is investigating two separate crashes involving pedestrians
and vehicles.
At approximately 6:52 a.m. on February 9, officers and firefighters responded to a report of a
pedestrian struck by a semi-truck at 28th Street and South Division Avenue. The semi was turning from
northbound Division Avenue to westbound 28th Street when it struck a 55-year-old male Wyoming
resident who was crossing 28th Street at the intersection.
The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital for significant injuries. He was last known to be in
serious condition.
At approximately 7:24 a.m., officers and firefighters responded to a report of a pedestrian struck near
Chicago Drive and Nagel Avenue Southwest.
A 32-year-old female resident of Wyoming was crossing Chicago Drive when she was struck by a vehicle traveling westbound. The pedestrian was then struck by another vehicle traveling eastbound. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The name of the pedestrian is being withheld pending notification of the next of kin. Wyoming accident investigators are currently investigating both crash scenes and the circumstances of the crashes.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood and Great Lakes Disc are partnering to host the eighth annual Freeze Fest doubles disc golf tournament and food drive on Saturday, Feb. 18.
Disc golfers of all skill levels are invited to join the best-shot doubles competition at Old Farm Park, 2350 Embro Dr. SE from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. All proceeds will go to support Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.
On-site registration begins at 9 a.m. and the first round of the tournament starts at 10 a.m. Pre-registration is encouraged online at kentwood.us/FreezeFest. The cost is $25 per person or $50 per team and one canned food donation.
“It has been exciting to watch Freeze Fest and our other disc golf events continue to grow each year,” said Lori Gresnick, Kentwood recreation program coordinator. “We continue to be amazed by and are grateful for the generosity of the disc golf community.”
The Kentwood Little Free Pantry initiative began in 2017 as a community service project in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. The small food pantry is open to all community members year-round and is designed to fill an immediate and local need. It offers nonperishable food and personal care items. Anyone can utilize or donate to the pantry. No application is required and no questions are asked.
“The annual Freeze Fest gives the disc golf community a great opportunity to enjoy the game during the off season while also supporting the local community,” said Shea Abbgy, owner of Great Lakes Disc. “This is one of our favorite events of the year and we’re proud to continue partnering with the City of Kentwood on this tournament.”
The demand for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, has steadily increased since its opening. To help meet the growing need, the City of Kentwood opened a second pantry location in 2021 at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. More information is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
After a 73-51 win over Ottawa Hills Tuesday, South Christian boys Coach Taylor Johnson was happy with how his Sailors handled the pressure.
“It was a great matchup with a team that can give you a lot of problems with their style of play,” said Johnson, whose Sailors improved to 13-3 overall, 8-1 (second place) in the OK Gold. “It took time, but once we got settled in I liked how we played together and passed through the pressure.
“It was an important game for us and we knew it would not be easy. Coach King does a nice job and we had to keep fighting. We made a big push late into the third quarter that really helped us pull away in the fourth.”
Sam Medendorp led the Sailors with 20 points, while Jake DeHaan added 17.
“Sam was so important for us and played great,” Johnson said. “His defensive presence is unlike anyone else in the league; he impacts the game on both sides of the ball. He showed off his athleticism last night with over five blocks and four dunks. It was fun to watch.
“DeHaan just continues to flourish of lately, finding his rhythm being able to hit the three and drive it to two feet and find ways to create angles and score. He also had some huge off rebounds for us that sparked important second chance points.”
Ottawa Hills fell to 10-7 overall, 6-3 in the Gold.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
With an 81-47 win over Saranac Tuesday, the Lee boys basketball team kept a near-perfect season moving along.
The Legends improved to 13-1 overall, their only loss coming on January 16 by one point to Charlotte (45-44). Quite a turnaround from last season, where they finished 5-16 overall, 2-6 in the Alliance.
“Overall, our team played great versus Saranac,” said Lee Coach Dominic Shannon. “Energy was appropriate, effort was strong and we have improved each game since taking our only loss of the season.
“Clarence Lewis really set the tone early in the game defensively, and by the end of the game, tied the steals record with seven steals, which was set a few weeks ago by our freshman point guard Jr. Metcalf.”
Junior guard Marc Whitfield led Lee with 20 points and 10 assists, followed by Joe Russau with 19 points.
“Marc is very elusive in the open court and great at finding his teammates,” Shannon explained. “He’s our best playmaker on the team. Marc has been close a couple times to 10 assists, but last night notched his first double-double of the season in a team win over Saranac, which I was the varsity head coach at for two years.”
Shannon said his team’s defense has been the anchor.
“Our wing/front court players, Ny’Zhem Marshall, Joe Russau and Keontae Taylor, have really been a huge disruption in the paint by altering shots and starting the break,” Shannon said. “We’re dangerous once we get out and run the court. As we head into March, as coaches we want to keep practice competitive and energetic.
“With the season stretching across a few months, it can be tough at times to keep energy and effort high, but I think our staff has managed to do a great job of keeping the boys engaged.”
Sitting atop the Alliance League at 3-0, Shannon talked about his team’s opportunities.
“We are in control of our destiny with a huge conference game this Friday at home versus Tri-unity Christian,” Shannon said. “Our goals are set high for this team, but our immediate goal is to win the Alliance crown, and it must be done defensively.”
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
Godwin Heights came out of the gate fast during Tuesday’s OK Silver showdown against NorthPointe Christian, but it was the visiting Mustangs that came away with a 69-67 win in a game that came down to the final seconds.
“You have to give the credit to NorthPointe,” said Godwin Heights Coach Tyler Whittemore. “They are a well-coached team and their kids played hard. They made some key shots and battled the entire game.”
Godwin Heights grabbed the early advantage in the game thanks to some outstanding defense and shot making on the offensive side of the floor. Godwin built a double-digit lead by the middle of the first quarter. The Wolverines were up 18-8 before NorthPointe Christian cut the margin in half by the end of the opening quarter.
The Wolverines kept control of the lead in the early going of the second quarter with a three-point shot by Jaylen Martin putting the Wolverines up 26-19 with 4:34 remaining in the half.
NorthPointe Christian, however, would not back down and a six-point Mustang run trimmed Godwin’s lead to a single point. By halftime, NorthPointe caught the Wolverines and the two teams went into the locker rooms tied at 34-34.
“We have a team full of seniors,” said NorthPointe Christian Coach Justin Yoder. “We start four seniors so we have a lot of experience. I told the guys no matter if we are up by 10 or down by 10, we have to stay the course. We have to execute on offense and play good defense.”
From halftime on, the game became a back-and-forth struggle, with neither team able to get more than a four-point lead in the third quarter or a five-point advantage in the fourth.
NorthPointe led 51-50 at the end of the third quarter before Godwin Heights surged ahead in the early minutes of the fourth. NPC led 65-63 with a minute remaining in the game when the Mustangs received a big play from Deangelo Person. He drove to the basket and scored and was also fouled on the play. Person added the free throw putting NorthPointe up 68-63.
Godwin replied with a final run of its own. After a free throw by Jamarion Collins, the Wolverine defense came up with a stop and on the next possession Collins drained a three-point shot cutting the margin to 68-67 with 15 seconds remaining.
With eight seconds left in the game, NorthPointe’s Mitchell White split a pair of free throws that put the Mustangs up 69-67. Godwin had an opportunity to tie the game in the final seconds, but a pair of missed free throws and a missed putback at the buzzer enabled NorthPointe to come away with the win.
“We had a shot at the end and that is all you can ask for,” Whittemore said. “They (NorthPointe) made the shots. That’s a really good team and we’ve battled back and forth with them all year.”
Godwin Heights defeated NPC 84-72 when the two teams previously met January 10 at NorthPointe.
“Godwin is a really good team,” Yoder said. “We changed up our defense this time. We went to a 3-2 zone the whole game and tried to mix it up. It was a game of runs and I’m super-proud of my boys. This was a big win for us.”
Jakhary Towns led Godwin with 23 points, followed by Collins and Damarie Thompson, 10 apiece and Marco Rodriguez, nine.
NorthPointe was led by Kayden Bird with 27 points and Person, 17.
With the loss, Godwin Heights fell to 10-4 overall and 6-3 in the league. The Wolverines return to action Friday when they host Calvin Christian and then host Belding next Tuesday.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Wyoming 71, Mona Shores 58 WKTV Game of the Week
(WY: Warren Williams, 17 points, 6 rebounds, 6 steals; Avonte Wiggins, 16 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists)
Lee 81, Saranac 47
(LEE: Marc Whitfield, 20 points, 10 assists; Joe Russau, 19 points)
Tri-unity Christian 71, Ravenna 39
(TU: Jordan VanKlompenberg and Keaton Blanker, 14 points apiece. Blanker also had 5 assists and 4 steals; Trey Rillema and Akais Giplaye, 6 rebounds each)
Potter’s House 78, Wellspring Prep 43
(PH: Quincy Winkle, 19 points)
South Christian 73, Ottawa Hills 51
(SC: Sam Medendorp, 20 points; Jake DeHaan, 17 points. OH: Craig Hureskin 17 points)
West Michigan Aviation 63, North Muskegon 55
(WMA: Luke Riebel, 22 points; Joseph May, 16 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, 2 turnovers; Ethan Dyksterhouse led with 9 rebounds)
NorthPointe Christian 69, Godwin Heights 67
Zion Christian, Grand River Prep
Rockford at East Kentwood
Kelloggsville at Comstock Park
Zion Christian 66, Grand River Prep 24
(ZC: Sam Deutschmann, 15 points; Madi DeRuiter, 14. GRP: Nkia Rodriguez, 10 points)
South Christian 57, Ottawa Hills 10
(SC: Ashley Raredon and Ashley Thomasma, 13 points apiece; Lizzie Wolthuis, 12)
Wyoming 44, Mona Shores 39
(WY: Aaliyah Ratliff, 12 points; LaAnna Griffin, 10 points, 14 rebounds)
Godwin Heights at NorthPointe Christian
Wellspring Prep at Potter’s House
Comstock Park at Kelloggsville
East Kentwood at Rockford
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
The Potter’s House girls basketball team was hitting on all cylinders on offense as it defeated Lee 60-13 in an Alliance League game Friday.
The Pumas took a 14-4 lead at the end of the first quarter and upped the advantage to 35-6 at halftime. They continued to put points on the board in the second half, building a 50-9 lead to end the third.
Isabelle Baez led the way for Potter’s House with 16 points, while Anyieth Nhial scored 10. The Puma’s improved to 12-4 overall, 4-0 in the Alliance League, while Lee fell to 2-14, 1-2.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights, February 3!
Every Friday, we’ll bring you some great high school boys and girls basketball clips from the Wyoming and Kentwood areas, highlight some top performers and give 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.
Thanks for watching, and see you next Friday!
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
The calendar may have said it was the first Friday in February, but the action inside the gym at Potter’s House felt totally like March.
In a game that was played in a state tournament-like atmosphere and in front of a packed crowd, the Lee Legends boys team held on to edge Potter’s House Christian 56-53.
Lee led the game from start to finish, but the victory was a hard-earned one as the Legends needed to withstand a spirited comeback by Potter’s House during the fourth quarter.
“I’m very, very proud with the way we faced adversity today,” Lee Coach Dominic Shannon said. “You have to take your hats off to Potter’s House. They played a great game, but I’m so proud of the way our guys responded to the adversity and playing on the road in a tough gym like they did.”
Lee seemed to have control of the game early in the fourth quarter as the Legends led 41-32 with six minutes remaining in the game. That lead, however, was anything but safe as the Pumas fed off the energy of their home crowd and battled back during the final six minutes of the game. Lee also lost senior Keontae Taylor midway through the final quarter when he fouled out with the Legends holding a seven-point lead.
Potter’s House cut the lead to 49-48 with 1:21 remaining in the game. That was when Silas Ondersma came up with a steal that led to a bucket by Aaron Leedy making the contest a one-point game. That bucket also capped a six-point Puma run.
Lee, however, refused to surrender the lead. A free throw by Marc Whitfield with 1:16 remaining and a subsequent offensive rebound and putback by Joe Russau built Lee’s lead back to four points.
After a free throw by Ezequiel Araujo drew Potter’s House to 52-49, Ny’Zhem Marshall scored with 43 seconds remaining to put Lee up 54-49. Lee was not in the clear, however, as Quincy Winkle drained a trey with 36 seconds left cutting the lead to 54-52.
After Lee missed a pair of free throws, Potter’s House drew to within one point when Araujo split a pair of free throws with 23 seconds remaining.
Lee upped the lead to 56-53 when Whitfield connected on a pair of free throws and then a steal by Lee’s Clarence Lewis with three seconds remaining sealed the win.
“We lost a key player when Keontae fouled out,” Shannon said, “but like the old saying goes, `next man up’. Troy Fox, a sophomore, came off the bench and he really came through for us. It was a great team effort with everyone contributing.”
Lee knew they were facing a difficult road test and in the early minutes of the game the Legends did what they could to take the crowd out of the game. Lee scored the first nine points of the game and held Potter’s House scoreless until the 4:05 mark of the first quarter.
“Our plan was to get out to an early lead and take the crowd out of the game,” Shannon said. “Getting that early lead helped to settle our nerves and give us some confidence.”
Lee led 17-8 at the end of the first quarter and took a 26-20 lead into halftime. The Legends continued to keep that working margin in the second half as they led 36-29 at the end of the third quarter.
Despite trailing the entire game, Potter’s House never felt out of the contest and gave the Legends all they could handle.
“We fell down into a hole early,” Potter’s House Coach Kevin Kuipers said. “I think we had a little too much adrenaline early and we missed some shots. The last month or so we’ve been playing pretty good. We’ve focused on staying together and never quitting. Never giving up.
“I liked the way we kept battling back tonight. I’m proud of the ways these guys played. We still had a chance at the end and that is all you can ask for.”
With the win, Lee improved to 12-1 overall and 3-0 in the Alliance League. The Legends, whose only defeat this season was a 45-44 loss to Charlotte, return to action Tuesday at Saranac and then host Tri-unity on Friday.
Whitfield led Lee in scoring with 16 points, followed by Lewis with 13. Marshall added nine points, while Russau had eight.
Potter’s House fell to 6-8 overall and 2-2 in the conference. The Pumas return to action Tuesday when they host Wellspring Prep and then travel to Covenant Christian next Friday.
Winkle led the Pumas with 21 points and Leedy added 12.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
South Christian 73, Forest Hills Eastern 61 WKTV Game of the Week
(Jake DeHaan, 25 points; Sam Medendorp, 17)
Lee 56, Potter’s House 53
(Lee: March Whitfield, 16 points; Clarence Lewis 13 points, 7 boards)
Jenison 47, East Kentwood 43
Tri-Unity Christian 71, Grand River Prep 48
(TU: Roy Fogg, 20 points, 9 rebounds; Jordan VanKlompenberg, 12 points; Akais Giplaye, 9 rebounds)
Wyoming 72, Union 67
(Alyjah Chandler, 20 points, 6 rebounds; Maxi Morales, 13 points; Avonte Wiggins, 12 points)
Muskegon Catholic Central at WMA
Battle Creek Calhoun Christian at Zion Christian
Godwin Heights at Comstock Park
NPC at Kelloggsville
South Christian 46, Forest Hills Eastern 42 WKTV Game of the Week
(SC: Sophia Prins, 12 points; Ashley Thomasma 11. FHE: Grace Doherty 13 points)
East Kentwood 53, Jenison 24
Wyoming 54, Union 43 Girls
(WY: Michaela Moore, 14 points; Aaliyah Ratliff, 13)
Lee at Potter’s House
Muskegon Catholic Central at WMA
Zion Christian 56, Battle Creek Calhoun Christian 25
(ZC: Jayda Steenbergen and Brie Alsum, 10 points apiece. Josie Doezema, nine)
NPC at Kelloggsville
Godwin Heights at Comstock Park
By WKTV Staff
The Kentwood Police Department is inviting individuals who are interested in a career in law enforcement to attend its recruitment event on Wednesday, Feb. 15.
The event will take place 6-8 p.m. and include two one-hour sessions at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. Similar to the department’s fall event, participants will have the opportunity to learn more about KPD’s sponsored police recruit position and other employment opportunities, connect with current officers, tour the department and more.
The informational sessions will be held at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., beginning with an overview about working for the department. Attendees only need to attend one of the sessions, which will cover the same information. Tours, networking and opportunities to learn more about specialized units at KPD will follow. Refreshments also will be provided.
“We’re seeking passionate, community-driven individuals to join our team, especially as a sponsored police recruit,” Police Chief Litwin said. “This position has been an important part of our efforts to recruit students of all backgrounds and to hire individuals who are representative of our diverse community.
“We met a lot of great candidates during our last recruitment event and look forward to connecting with even more people interested in careers in law enforcement this time around.”
The event will feature information about all department employment opportunities, with a special focus on the sponsored police recruit position. Selected police recruit applicants will receive a full scholarship from KPD to attend the Grand Valley State University Police Academy or another approved police training program in fall 2023.
In addition to the police academy sponsorship, recruits receive competitive pay throughout the academy, comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, a 9 percent employer retirement plan contribution and continuing education and training. Individuals who successfully complete the academy and other required certifications and training will be sworn in as patrol officers with the Kentwood Police Department. No prior law enforcement experience is necessary to apply for this position.
No registration is required for the event and no prior law enforcement experience is necessary to attend. Attendees should plan to bring something to take notes with.
Individuals who are interested in working for KPD but cannot attend the event can receive more information by contacting Recruitment Officer Ryan Smith at smithr@kentwood.us.
More information about the event can be found at kentwood.us/KPD2023. To explore current job openings and apply, visit kentwood.us/employment.
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood will host its sixth annual Valentine’s Dash 5K at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 to benefit Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, which provides food and personal care items to community members in need.
The 5K route will include a combination of trails and paved pathways starting and ending at Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
Participants are encouraged to wear Valentine’s Day-themed costumes. While intended to be a fun run, the race will be chip timed and awards will be given for the fastest runner overall and in each age group.
An awards ceremony will follow in the library’s community room around noon, including Valentine-themed snacks, music and a photo booth.
“It can be difficult to find opportunities to run in the winter, especially races,” said Spencer McKellar, lead recreation program coordinator. “Our Valentine’s Dash provides a fun, festive opportunity to participate in a winter race, whether you’re an avid walker, first-time runner or a seasoned racer. All are welcome to come out and join us.”
Online registration is available until Feb. 10 and includes a long-sleeved shirt and other participant-packet goodies while supplies last. Racers should register by Jan. 26 to guarantee a shirt. Registration is $30 until Jan. 29, $35 from Jan. 30 to Feb. 10 and $40 on the day of the event. Runners who sign up as a couple save $5 each. Participants who bring a nonperishable item or monetary donation for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry will be entered to win a special door prize.
Kentwood’s first Little Free Pantry opened to the community in 2017 at the Kentwood Activities Center, where it remains available year-round during business hours. The City launched a second pantry at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch in 2021. More information, including a list of suggested donations, is available atkentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.
There also are volunteer opportunities available for this event. Volunteers will help with racer check-in and registration, keep traffic off the race route and hand out water to runners during the race.
For more event information, visit kentwood.us/ValentinesDash.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
After trailing 10-1 to start the game, South Christian clawed back to eventually grab a 44-36 win over visiting Caledonia Tuesday.
At halftime, the game was tied at 21 and knotted at 28 to end the third quarter.
“The game went back and forth with both teams just really digging in on defense and struggling to get much going on offense,” said South Christian Coach Kim Legge, whose team is 10-5 overall, 5-2 in the OK Gold.
Caledonia led 36-35 with 3:30 left in the game and then the momentum was all South Christian.
“Ashley Thomasma hit a big three that put us up two points,” Legge said. “Our defense would hold strong from that point on holding Caledonia scoreless the rest of the way.”
Thomasma led the Sailors with 15 points, followed by Ashley Raredon, 13 points and 11 rebounds and Lizzie Wolthuis, 11.
Caledonia’s Gracie Gortmaker finished the game with 18 of the team’s 36 points.
“It was a great non conference matchup against a crosstown school,” Legge said. “Both teams worked extremely hard to keep the other team out of their rhythm. A lot of the players from both teams know each other so that always makes for a fun matchup.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
The Potter’s House Christian girls basketball team won its seventh game in a row with a 52-14 win over Muskegon Orchard View Tuesday.
Coach Jake Hoogstrate said after a slow start to the game, his team got it rolling in the second quarter and “really turned it on in the third.”
“We wanted to pressure aggressively defensively and that finally started to turn into offense as the game went on,” Hoogstrate explained. “We had a season-high 16 assists in the game and really shared the ball well. Ten players scored in the game, also a season high.”
Isabelle Baez led the Pumas in scoring, in limited minutes, with 10 points and Anyieth Nhial added eight points, seven rebounds and three assists. Jordan Clark scored 6 points in her varsity debut, while Serenity Clark and Ivy Andreas each added five points.
The Pumas are now 11-4 overall, 2-0 in the Alliance League.
“This group has been an absolute joy to coach,” Hoogstrate said. “We started the season with a challenging schedule and really learned a lot about who we were and what we were capable of. This team enjoys being around one another and isn’t afraid of a challenge.
“We brought a lot of players back from last year and have some great upperclassmen leading the team. They have bought in and established a great culture for our program. We have a lot of great opportunities ahead of us and we look forward to making the most of them the rest of the way.”
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
Timely defense and a balanced offense proved key for Godwin Heights as the Wolverines outlasted visiting Tri-unity Christian 76-62 in a non-league game Tuesday.
Godwin Heights came out playing pressure defense from the opening tip. That defensive pressure not only took its toll on the Tri-unity offense, but it led to layups on the other end of the floor enabling the Wolverines to eventually take control of the game.
Junior guard Jace Reid-Anderson was one of the leaders of the defense as he came up with some key steals to go along with applying solid pressure on the Tri-unity guard.
“I’ve been working on my defense a lot more,” Reid-Anderson said. “What we do on the defensive side of the floor helps us get our offense going.”
Along with his efforts on defense, Reid-Anderson contributed on the offensive side of the floor with 10 points, including a breakaway dunk in the final minutes of the game. The Wolverines, who led 66-58 with 3:27 remaining in the game, ended the game with a flurry as they outscored Tri-unity 10-4 to close it out.
“I thought our intensity was very high early in the game,” Godwin Heights Coach Tyler Whittemore said. “Our best offense comes off our defense and I thought at times we did a nice job. I thought we also passed the ball well at times and got some high percentage shots.”
The game was a back and forth contest in the early going with Tri-unity leading 13-12 at the end of the first quarter. The Defenders were up 23-21 midway through the second quarter when Godwin went on a run to take the upper hand. The Wolverines strung together eight straight points to go up 29-23 and never surrendered the lead.
Godwin led 36-31 at halftime and upped the lead to 40-31 early in the second half.
“I was disappointed with the way we played defense,” Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler said. “They are a very nice team. They are very quick. We tried to prepare for their quickness, but they were just difficult to defend. They also played some good defense against us.”
Godwin Heights led 54-46 at the end of the third quarter. The two teams traded buckets for most of the final quarter before the Wolverines went on the final run to put the game away in the final minutes.
Godwin, which had four players score in double figures, was led on offense by senior guard Jakhary Towns, who finished with 17 points, all in the first half.
“I thought we played with some good intensity on defense,” Towns said. “I also thought we did a nice job of moving the ball on offense. This was a big win for us, especially with us getting back into conference play on Friday.”
Senior Damarie Thompson also turned in a strong game for the Wolverines. Along with a strong defensive effort, Thompson scored 15 points.
“Every win is a big win,” Thompson said. “They were state champs last year so this was a big win for us. I thought we played ok, but we could’ve played a little better on the defensive end.”
Godwin also received 14 points from Marcos Rodriguez, eight from Jamarion Collins, six from Rashaad Dorsey and three apiece from Tre’Vonte Buckley and Jaylen Martin.
“I thought our guys off the bench did a really good job,” Whittemore said. “They brought a lot of energy into the game. They also did a good job of playing defense.”
With the win, Godwin Heights improved to 9-3 overall and 6-1 in the OK Blue conference, a half game in back of Calvin Christian. The Wolverines return to action Friday at Comstock Park and then host NorthPointe Christian next Tuesday.
Tri-unity fell to 9-4 overall and are 2-1 in the Alliance League. The Defenders host Grand River Prep on Friday and then host Ravenna next Tuesday.
Roy Fogg led Tri-Unity with 18 points, while Jordan VanKlompenberg had 16. Akais Giplaye also reached double figures with 12 points, followed by Keaton Blanker, six.
Fogg led Tri-unity in rebounding with 10 boards, while Giplaye added eight.
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Godwin Heights 76, Tri-unity Christian 62 WKTV Game of the Week
Wyoming 73, Holland Christian 60
(WY: Maxi Morales, 24 points, 6 rebounds; Alyjah Chandler, 20 points 5 rebounds, 7 assists)
Potter’s House Christian 59, Muskegon Orchard View 27
(PH: Malachi VerWys, 16 points; Quincy Winkle, 10)
Wellspring Prep at Grand River Prep
Muskegon Catholic Central at Zion Christian
West Michigan Aviation at Fruitport Calvary Christian
Grand River Prep 56, Wellspring Prep 14
Potter’s House Christian 52, Muskegon Orchard View 14
Zion Christian 50, Muskegon Catholic Central 27
(ZC: Jayda Steenbergen, 13 points; Audra Kaptein, 12)
South Christian 44, Caledonia 36
(SC: Ashley Thomasma, 15 points; Ashley Raredon, 13 points, 11 rebounds and Lizzie Wolthuis, 11 points. CAL: Gracie Gortmaker, 18 points.)
Fruitport Calvary Christian 53, West Michigan Aviation 38
