By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Check out the local boys basketball district brackets for First Round and Semis
Tag Archives: City of Wyoming
Watch our latest WKTV Friday Night Highlights show HERE, March 3!
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights right now, Friday, March 3!
Check out our local girls district final highlights here (East Kentwood, South Christian and Potter’s House) and our boys district bracket preview.
Thanks for watching, and see you next Friday!
Tuesday night boys basketball scores and team leaders, February 28
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Lee 76, Benton Harbor Countryside 50
(LEE: Ny’Zhem Marshall, 33 points, 10 rebounds; Marc Whitfield and Joe Russau, 10 points apiece; Whitfield, 11 boards and 15 assists; Russau, 10 boards)
South Christian 64, East Kentwood 48
(SC: Jake Vermaas, 23 points; Jake DeHaan, 21; Carson Vis, 12. EK: Marshaun Flakes, 14 points; Christian Humphrey and Darryl Thompkins Jr., 11 apiece)
Tri-unity 63, Fennville 40
(TU: Roy Fogg, 11 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists; Keaton Blanker, 10 points)
Unity Christian 69, Wyoming 61
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 22 points; Avonte’ Wiggins, 17)
West Michigan Aviation 74, Allegan 42
(WMAA: Luke Riebel, 20 points, 2 steals, 4 turnovers; Ethan Dyksterhouse, 18 points, 9 rebounds, 3 steals, 5 blocks; Heath Tamlyn, 16 points, 1 steal, 2 turnovers)
Girls District Tournament Update: East Kentwood, South Christian, Potter’s House Advance to Finals
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Division 1
District 12 (at Wyoming)
East Kentwood 72, Caledonia 56
East Grand Rapids 65, Wyoming 50
Semifinals: East Kentwood 61, Thornapple Kellogg 27
Semifinals: Byron Center 63, East Grand Rapids 39
DISTRICT FINAL: East Kentwood (16-7) vs. Byron Center (20-3) at 7 pm Friday at Wyoming
Division 2
District 42 (at West Catholic)
Sparta 59, Lee 7
District 43 (at Kelloggsville)
Godwin Heights 60, Grand River Prep 23
Semifinals: Grand Rapids Christian defeated Godwin Heights
Semifinals: South Christian 42, Kelloggsville 16
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 11 points; Emerald Hoekwater, 9)
DISTRICT FINAL: South Christian (16-7) vs. Grand Rapids Christian (17-5) at 7 pm Friday at Kelloggsville
District 44 (at Lakewood)
Hastings 61, West Michigan Aviation 16
Division 3
District 75 (at Grandville Calvin Christian)
Potter’s House 43, Saranac 32
Semifinals: Potter’s House 57, GR Covenant Christian 54 (Double OT)
(PH: Anyieth Nhial, 20 points; Emily Baez (freshman), 18 points; Isabelle Baez, 9 points and 5 steals; Joy McClendon, 9 points and 6 rebounds)
Semifinals: NorthPointe Christian 48, Grandville Calvin Christian 45
DISTRICT FINAL: Potter’s House (18-6) vs. NorthPointe Christian (16-7) at 7 pm Friday at Grandville Calvin Christian
Division 4
District 115 (at Decatur)
Zion Christian 41, Decatur 29
Semifinals: Martin 45, Zion Christian 35
Watch our latest WKTV Friday Night Highlights show HERE, February 24!
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Take a look at our latest edition of WKTV Friday Night Highlights right now, Friday, February 24!
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!
Friday night basketball scores and team leaders, Feb. 24
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
greer@wktv.org
Friday, Feb. 24 Boys Basketball
South Christian 80, Cedar Springs 41 WKTV Game of the Week
Sailors OK Gold Champions
(SC: Jake DeHaan, 25 points; Sam Medendorp, 20)
East Kentwood 61, Hudsonville 49
Falcons OK Red Champions 11-3
(EK: Marshaun Flakes, 20 points)
Wyoming 59, Zeeland East 43
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 15 points, 9 rebounds; Donavyn Edwards, 11 points, 6 assists, 6 steals)
Covenant Christian 56, WMA 52
(WMA: Luke Riebel, 24 points, 3 steals; Heath Tamlyn and Ethan Dyksterhouse, 10 points apiece)
Potter’s House 74, Fremont 55
(PH: Quincy Winkle, 20 points)
Tri-Unity Christian 78, Wellspring Prep 31
(TU: All 13 players scored for Tri-Unity. Jordan VanKlompenberg, 13 points; Dylan Bruinsma, 11)
Godwin Heights 84, Kelloggsville 66
Friday, Feb. 24 Girls Basketball
South Christian 63, Cedar Springs 26 WKTV Game of the Week
(SC: Lizzie Wolthuis, 13 points; Sophia Prins, 12)
Kelloggsville at Godwin Heights
Wyoming at Zeeland East
Hudsonville 49, East Kentwood 40
Take a sneak peek at this week’s Friday Night Highlights show, Feb. 24
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.
Tuesday night basketball scores and team leaders, Feb. 21
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Tuesday, Feb. 21 Boys Basketball
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
Tuesday, Feb. 21 Girls Basketball
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
Watch our latest WKTV Friday Night Highlights Show HERE, Feb. 17!
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!
Friday night basketball scores and team leaders, Feb. 17
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Friday, Feb. 17 Boys Basketball
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
Friday, Feb. 17 Girls Basketball
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
West Michigan consumers have watched egg prices skyrocket, and wonder why
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.
More than 58 million birds affected countrywide
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.”
Labor, transportation and energy costs add to the price
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.
Farmers replenishing flocks helps soften prices
“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.
Michigan spared major avian flu outbreaks
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.”
Extra bio security measures in Michigan
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.”
Conspiracy theories put to rest
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.”
‘It all comes back to perspective’
“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
Take a sneak peek at this week’s Friday Night Highlights show, Feb. 17
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.
Tuesday night basketball scores and team leaders, Feb. 14
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Tuesday, Feb. 14 Boys Basketball
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
Tuesday, Feb. 14 Girls Basketball
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
Watch our latest WKTV Friday Night Highlights Show HERE, Feb. 10!
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!
Friday night basketball scores and team leaders, Feb. 10
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Friday, Feb. 10 Boys Basketball
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
Friday, Feb. 10 Girls Basketball
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
Take a sneak peek at our Friday Night Highlights show
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.
Wyoming Police Department investigating two separate crashes
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.
South Christian Boys knock off Ottawa Hills 73-51 Tuesday
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.
Lee boys keep rolling with win over Saranac Tuesday
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.”
NorthPointe Christian overcomes early deficit to upend Godwin Heights
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.
All tied up at 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.
Jamarion Collins trey tightens it up at the end
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 gets earlier win
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 scores 23
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.
Tuesday night basketball scores and team leaders, Feb. 7
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Tuesday, Feb. 7 Boys Basketball
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
Tuesday, Feb. 7 Girls Basketball
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
Potter’s House girls use big offense to beat Lee Friday
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.
Watch our latest WKTV Friday Night Highlights Show HERE, and don’t miss our Feb. 10 show!
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!
Lee holds on to defeat Potter’s House in Alliance League thriller 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.
Right down to the wire
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.
Fell behind early
“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.
Friday night basketball scores and team leaders, Feb. 3
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Friday, Feb. 3 Boys Basketball
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
Friday, Feb. 3 Girls Basketball
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
Potter’s House girls keep the wins coming, beat Orchard View 52-14 Tuesday
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.”
Tuesday night basketball scores and team leaders, Jan. 31
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Tuesday, Jan. 31 Boys Basketball
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
Tuesday, Jan. 31 Girls Basketball
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
Ratliff scores season-high 30 points to lead Wyoming girls Friday
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
Wyoming senior Aaliyah Ratliff poured in a season-best 30 points to help lead the way for the Wyoming girls basketball team as they overcame a slow start to defeat Zeeland East 55-33.
After falling behind 12-2 to start the game, Wyoming went on a 12-0 run to end the first quarter and get back in the game.
“It was a big win for us coming off two tough losses to Muskegon and Zeeland West,” Wyoming Coach Jesse Vasquez said. “To bounce back against a good Zeeland East team gives us a real shot of momentum going into next week.”
The sizzling shooting from Ratliff also provided a big boost of momentum during Friday’s game. Ratliff connected on five three-point shots in a row during a span in the third and fourth quarter that turned the game around.
“She had a couple of 20-point games this season,” Vasquez said. “She averages about 13 points per game, but she shows in practice every day that she has the ability to make tough shots. She got in a rhythm in the third quarter where everything was falling.”
The Wyoming offense also received a boost from Maddie Longoria, who finished with 10 points for the game including a pair of three-point shots.
With the win, Wyoming improved to 8-7 overall, 3-4 in the conference.
“I thought our girls did a real good job of responding to adversity,” Vasquez said. “The girls did a really good job of staying together and staying the course and ended up pulling it out.”
Friday night basketball scores and team leaders, Jan. 27
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Friday, Jan. 27 Boys Basketball
Wyoming 82, Zeeland East 78 (WKTV Game of the Week)
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 23 points, 6 steals; Quintin Williams, 23 points, 7 assists, 7 steals)
Lee 90, Wellspring Prep 44
(LEE: Marc Whitfield, 22 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals; Jr. Metcalf, 19 points, 7 assists)
Potter’s House Christian 41, Tri-Unity Christian 39
Grand River Prep at West Michigan Aviation Boys 7 pm
Hudsonville 54, East Kentwood 45
Godwin Heights 81, Kelloggsville Boys 48
South Christian 59, Cedar Springs 36
(Carson Vis, 16 points, Sam Medendorp, 9)
Fruitport Calvary Christian at Zion Christian Boys 7:30 pm
Friday, Jan. 27 Girls Basketball
Wyoming 55, Zeeland East 33 (WKTV Game of the Week)
West Michigan Aviation 43, Grand River Prep 31
Zion Christian 49, Fruitport Calvary Christian 20
(ZC: Josie Doezema, 17 points; Jayda Steenbergen, 12 points)
East Kentwood at Hudsonville Girls 6 pm
Godwin Heights at Kelloggsville Girls 6 pm
South Christian 63, Cedar Springs
Hart vs. Potter’s House Christian Girls (AT Cornerstone Showcase) 7 pm
Wellspring Prep at Lee Girls 7 pm
Ford International Airport announces third round of FLITE grants
BY WKTV Staff
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, together with Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines®, Stantec GenerationAV and the West Michigan Aviation Academy, has announced the third round of companies that will receive a total of $171,000 in grant funding through the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship (FLITE).
One of the first airport-based initiatives in the nation, FLITE provides funding to encourage the design, development and pilot testing of new products and services in a live airport environment. FLITE has completed two rounds of funding and will launch a third round in spring 2023. The five companies that will receive grant funding through this next round include:
- Cyberworks Robotics: Retrofitting autonomous navigation technology for OEM products.
- Deaf AI: Training machines with artificial intelligence to use sign language to improve the experience of communicating with those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
- Renu Robotics: Revolutionizing the way aviation facilities conduct vegetation management with autonomous lawnmowers.
- Solartonic: Enhancing security resilience with autonomous smart solar-powered lighting and camera systems with reduced operating costs.
- UV Angel: Using first-of-its-kind software to reduce bacteria, viruses and molds on frequently touched surfaces and in the air.
“After the successful completion of two rounds of funding, FLITE has proven to be a key asset to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and the state of Michigan’s local entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “It has become a leading platform in transforming the aviation industry through the introduction of new technologies that advance our ability to provide a world-class experience to all passengers and guests.”
West Michigan Aviation Academy
A new partnership for FLITE includes the West Michigan Aviation Academy, a tuition-free public charter high school that provides a unique educational opportunity for students to focus on high-growth employment fields in the aviation industry during their high school education.
“The West Michigan Aviation Academy was very excited about the possibility to bring real-world innovation to the classroom with the partnership with FLITE,” said George Pavey, dean of aviation for West Michigan Aviation Academy. “Many of these cutting-edge projects connected with the FLITE program have provided countless opportunities for our students to experience learning beyond the academic setting. To see and experience the future of aviation and engineering further enhances our ability to develop the next generation of industry professionals.”
As Michigan’s lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with a focus on growing the local economy, MEDC provided grant funding to FLITE through the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME).
“For Michigan, innovation is in our DNA. With the announcement of FLITE’s round three of funding, we are positioning the state to be a global leader in high-tech and multi-modal mobility innovation,” said Charlie Tyson, technology activation director with OFME. “Programs like FLITE at the Ford International Airport not only support Michigan-based entrepreneurs, but also global tech companies as they seek to grow here in Michigan.”
Cyberworks Robotics
Based in Ontario, Canada, Cyberworks Robotics is a global leading provider of specialized autonomous self-driving systems for airport wheelchairs, autonomous industrial carpet cleaners, autonomous floor scrubbers and autonomous tow-tuggers. Specifically designed for airport operations, its technology is designed to operate in crowded large-scale environments to safely mitigate labor shortages and reduce operating costs.
“Being based out of Canada, FLITE provides access to test and grow in the U.S. market,” said Vivek Burhanpurkar, CEO of Cyberworks Robotics. “We’re excited about the opportunity to connect with the FLITE partners and advisory committee as resources for our technology and business development.”
Deaf AI
Based in Toronto, Canada, Deaf AI is an artificial intelligence venture that focuses on improving communication for those who use American Sign Language due to hard of hearing or hearing loss. Its technology converts flight and boarding announcements into sign language at airport terminals.
“Throughout my communications with different airport authorities, a few of them referred us to the FLITE program as a starting point after noticing that Deaf AI is an early-stage venture,” said Mehdi Masoumi, founder and CEO of Deaf AI. “The aviation industry has a significant gap in pilot studies and soft landings for innovation, making it difficult for early-stage startups to present their innovations to airport authorities. FLITE singularly built a bridge to address this gap by providing resources for early-stage startups.
“For Deaf AI, FLITE is a window of opportunity to test its innovation and reach out to other airports, including airports on the advisory boards of the FLITE program.”
Renu Robotics
Based in San Antonio, Texas, Renu Robotics the industry leader in autonomous vegetation management systems, was part of FLITE’s second cohort and will be returning for round three to conduct additional pilot testing of their product.
“Round three allows us to further explore the Renubot’s mowing capabilities in areas of the airport where larger mowers cannot easily access, as well as a cost-savings comparison,” said Tim Matus, CEO of Renu Robotics. “We’re also continuing to look into FAA requirements for operating on airport grounds and how those regulations are applicable.”
Solartonic
Based in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Solartonic provides off-grid solar-powered smart poles that are safe, resilient and sustainable. Their smart solahub™ platform integrates cloud-controlled devices with framework products for LED lights, CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi networks, IoT sensors and digital signage through remote monitoring and control.
“We are excited to participate in FLITE with the Ford International Airport,” said Harry Giles, co-founder and CEO of Solartonic. “FLITE provides the ideal opportunity for us to demonstrate the value of our solutions to enhance airport perimeter security, passenger experience and airport operations. In partnership with Jacobsen|Daniels, we intend to apply this to airports across the country.”
UV Angel
Based in Grand Haven, Michigan, UV Angel is a leading disinfection technology company that uses UV Light technology, advanced optical engineering and a first-of-its-kind digital software platform, to disinfect surfaces by neutralizing bacteria, viruses and molds.
“We look forward to placing our UV Angel Clean Air™ Technology in the Ford International Airport,” said Tom Byrne, CEO of UV Angel. “The aviation industry has a critical need to protect personnel and travelers, and the FLITE program will provide invaluable insight and feedback to further our mission to make indoor spaces cleaner, safer and healthier for everyone.”
The Ford International Airport has identified six core focus areas for new technology advancements through FLITE:
- Automation and Analytics: Improving operational efficiency and optimization of the workforce and other resources through automation and analysis of data.
- Safety and Security: Strengthening passenger and worker safety and security throughout the airport campus.
- Enhanced Guest Experience: Improving the pre-boarding experience.
- Sustainability: Switching fossil fuel vehicles and infrastructure to electric and other decarbonization projects.
- Door-to-Door Experience: Improving the experience and efficiency of getting to and from the airport.
- Advancing Aviation: Exploring the enabling infrastructure and implications of emerging commercial aviation use cases.
Applications for round four of FLITE are being accepted now through June 30, 2023, at michiganbusiness.org/mobility-funding.
South Christian girls beat Catholic Central 65-64 in OT thriller
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
South Christian Coach Kim Legge summed up her team’s 65-64 OT victory over Grand Rapids Catholic Central Tuesday with three words.
“What a game.”
Down by two points in regulation with five seconds remaining, South Christian’s Lily Nitz sank two free throws to tie the game at 56 apiece.
The Cougars, however, weren’t quite ready for overtime.
After the free throws, they inbounded the ball and took it downcourt for a chance to win. Catholic Central made a layup at the buzzer, but it was called off sending the game into overtime.
Off to overtime
“In overtime, both teams went back and forth with scoring,” explained Legge. “With 1:30 on the clock it was once again all tied up at 62. We hit 4-of-8 field goals and they had 2 out of 5, but also had 3-for-6 on free throws.
“We always have a lot of respect for Catholic Central. Going into the game we knew we would have to put together four solid quarters in order to compete. We have been learning from each game we play and seem to build on those experiences. Our team has talked a lot about consistency and composure in the past few weeks and the team really leaned into that last night.”
Legge talked about Catholic Central’s inside/outside game.
“Grace McKinney and Emily VanTimmeren are both extremely talented and have great moves in the paint,” Legge said. “They also have kids that can shoot the ball so we worked a lot on our closeouts in order to be ready for their shooters.”
VanTimmerman led the Cougars with 20 points.
“We are a team that also has an inside and outside game with Ashley Raredon inside and shooters like Ashley Thomasma and Lizzie Wolthuis to name a few.,” Legge explained. “We shot extremely well in the first quarter connecting on 4-of-5 3-pointers.”
Thomasma led South Christian with 20 points, including six 3-pointers. Her biggest trey of the night came with 1:13 left in overtime from the corner on an assist from Raredon to give the Sailors a three-point lead.
Raredon had 16 points and 14 rebounds, while Sophia Prins added 13 points and six boards.
Tuesday basketball scores and team leaders, Jan. 24
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
Tuesday, Jan. 24 Boys Basketball
Tri-Unity Christian 51, Schoolcraft 46
(TU: Owen Rosendall, Roy Fogg, 12 points apiece; Akais Giplaye, 11 points, 7 rebounds; Keaton Blanker, 11 points, including the last 4 free throws to clinch the game)
Potter’s House Christian 73, West Michigan Aviation 57
(PH: Quincy Winkle, 32 points; Aaron Leedy, 16)
Wyoming 79, Zeeland West 41
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 14 points; Avonte Wiggins, 9)
Catholic Central 71, South Christian 67
Zion Christian 67, Martin 31
East Kentwood at West Ottawa
Benton Harbor Countryside Academy at Lee
Sparta at Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville at Grandville Calvin Christian
Tuesday, Jan. 24 Girls Basketball
South Christian 65, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 64 OT
(SC: Ashley Thomasma, 20 points; Ashley Raredon, 16. CC: Emily VanTimmeren, 20)
East Kentwood 59, West Ottawa 40 Girls 7 pm (WKTV GAME OF THE WEEK)
Zeeland West 55, Wyoming 41
Zion Christian 44, Kent City Algoma Christian 41
(ZC: Madi DeRuiter, 15 points, Josie Doezema, 11. AC: Izzy Lockwood, 15 points; Kassie Moore, 10.)
Godwin Heights 70, Sparta 53
(GH: Imani Taylor, 20 points; Mikasia Witherspoon, 19, including 4 3-pointers. SP: Averi Poet, 13 points.)
Grandville Calvin Christian 56, Kelloggsville 11
Friday, Jan. 20 Boys Basketball
East Kentwood 56, Caledonia 41
Muskegon 84, Wyoming 52
(WY: Alyjah Chandler, 16 points, 4 rebounds; Maxi Morales, 10 points, 6 rebounds)
Lee 74, Zion Christian 41
Godwin Heights 66, Hopkins 58
Kelloggsville 60, Belding 42
South Christian 81, Wayland 54
(SC: Jake Vermaas, 27 points; Carson Vis, 19)
Grand Rapids Covenant Christian 46, Tri-unity 35
Grand River Prep 69, Muskegon Catholic Central 57
Friday, Jan. 20 Girls Basketball
East Kentwood 65, Caledonia 43
Zion Christian 46, Lee 10
(ZC: Josie Doezema, Jayda Steenbergen, Sam Deutschmann, Brie Alsum, 8 points apiece; LEE: Autumn Johnson, Imonie Davis, 3 points apiece)
Hopkins 68, Godwin Heights 49
(GH: Mikasia Kayter Witherspoon, season-high 19 points; Kashari Babb, 11; Imani Taylor, 10 points. HOPKINS: Matty Weber, 24 points)
Grand River Prep 52, Muskegon Catholic Central 48
(Kennedie Crawford, 25 points, including four 3-pointers; Abby Rivera-Sosa, 19 points)
Belding 52, Kelloggsville 17
Muskegon 70, Wyoming 61
South Christian 54, Wayland 48
Check it out! Our latest WKTV Friday Night Highlights Show, Jan. 20
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
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.
Thanks for watching, and see you next Friday!
Covenant Christian outlasts Tri-unity in defensive struggle Friday
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
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.
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.”
Grand River Prep girls beat Lee 50-27, notch first win
By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
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.
“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.
