By Ty Marzean
WKTV Contributor
The holiday break couldn’t stop the Tri-unity Christian boys from staying on a roll as they scored early and often in a 71-16 blowout over Potterville on Thursday.
“We were rip-roaring and ready to go,” said long-time Tri-unity Coach Mark Keeler, whose team improved to 7-1 overall.
The Defenders proved that readiness as they raced to a 31-5 lead after the first quarter and 48-10 at the half.
Senior captains Owen Rosendall and Jordan VanKlompenberg both had 11 points in the rout, but their defense stole the show.
“They led the way; you are not going to find two better defensive players than those two,” Keeler said. ” I feel sorry for anyone that Owen guards because they are not going to have a fun night. Jordan gets stuck with the bigger kids, and he just does amazing.”
The Defenders are holding their opponents to only 35 points per game in the early portion of the 2023-2024 season while averaging 62 points on offense.
“They played really solid defense, and that’s always been a trademark at Tri-unity.”
Senior big man Akais Giplaye added four rebounds in the winning effort.
Giplaye, Rosendall, VanKlompenberg and Wes Kaman form a solid senior base full of state championship experience.
“Those four are an amazing nucleus and are tough as nails,” Keeler explained.
Even in the lopsided victory, Keeler was impressed with how his team played unselfish basketball.
“I was so proud that they still shared the ball and didn’t worry about their own points or shots,” Keeler continued. “They are all so coachable and playing like men, not little boys. We also got to play a lot of guys quite a bit that don’t usually get as much playing time and give them experience.”
Ranked No. 1 in Division 4, Tri-unity has played a strong schedule as they anticipate their future Alliance League games.
“The Alliance League is strong,” Keeler said. “Lee is going to be tough; Potter’s House is also a good game. You are not going to go through this league unscathed.”
Junior Keaton Blanker led the Defenders on the scoreboard with 12 points, while fellow junior Joey Mellon added 10.
The Defenders (7-1) travel to Lansing Catholic (1-5) on Saturday afternoon.
