Grand Rapids Christian topples undefeated Forest Hills Central for District Championship

GR Christian's Katie VanderWeide leads the fast break | DavidChandlerPhoto.com

High quality, professional prints from the game available from David Chandler Photography

The Quest Center featured the top team in the O-K White against the top team in the O-K Black on Friday night, in a battle for the district championship. Grand Rapids Christian finished the season with an outstanding record of 22-1, their only loss coming to undefeated 23-0 Forest Hills Central in double overtime.

This time, with their entire season riding on the line, Grand Rapids Christian was able to avenge their earlier loss, earning a 37-32 victory over the previously undefeated Rangers.  The Class-A district trophy was just gravy.

Forest Hills Central's Katharine Cline puts up the shot | DavidChandlerPhoto.com

Led by Katharine Cline, the quest for the hardware started out in favor of Forest Hills Central, whose tough defense and excellent offensive execution earned them a 12-6 lead to start the second quarter.

The Eagles fought right back, recovering with a few key offensive plays of their own.  Megan Rietema‘s back-to-back offensive rebound putbacks brought the Eagles right back into the game.  Rietema would finish with 12-points and 9-rebounds on the night.

With their seasons on the line, neither team would give an inch.  The 3rd quarter ended in a 28-28 tie.  Neither team could build more than a 3-point lead in the fourth quarter, as the entire floor was locked down on defense.

Grand Rapids Christian leading 35-32 with 1:33 remaining in the game, the Eagles ran down the clock and hit a few key free throws (the Rangers narrowly missing on their few shot attempts) to earn a 37-32 victory over Forest Hills Central. Their victory avenged their lone loss on the season, and did so on a much bigger stage.

Katie VanderWeide scored 12-points and snagged 2-rebounds for Grand Rapids Christian.  Leading the way for the Rangers were April LaCross with 8-points and Jill Hendrickson with 7-points.

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Professional photographer located in East Grand Rapids Michigan