Third Quarter Difference Maker as Eagles Win

Friday night’s battle between Greenville and Grand Rapids Christian had all the setup for an action-packed matchup— the Yellow Jackets entered the game riding high on a four game winning streak, and the Eagles looked to bounce back after their first loss of the season.  Although the 51-38 final might not seem to be all that exciting of a game, don’t let the numbers fool you, Grand Rapids Christian and Greenville put on quite a show.

Right from the tip, both teams came out to win.  Each squad employed a full-court press throughout the entire game.  The first quarter ended knotted up at 11, as both teams seemed to feel one another out.  With time ticking away in the second quarter, it was looking like Grand Rapids Christian would be taking a slim two point lead into the half, but that margin was widened with a controversial three pointer as time expired.  Although the Greenville faithful yelled that the shot was released after the buzzer had sounded, the referees held stuck to their guns, allowing the basket, and sending the game into halftime with the score 26-21.

Starting the second half of play, it would appear that the Eagles’ last-second basket had drained the life from the Yellowjackets, as Greenville could only muster one point during the entire third quarter.  Taking advantage of the situation, Grand Rapids Christian opened up their lead to 18, ending the third quarter with a score of 40-22.  Greenville managed to find its composure in the final quarter, outscoring Grand Rapids Christian by five (16-11), but it was too little, too late– the Eagles’ lead was such that their victory was never in doubt.

Freshman Drake Harris led Grand Rapids Christian’s offensive attack, putting up 16 points, including two from beyond the arc.  He was the only Eagle to score in double digits.  Juniors Kurt Hoekstra and Justin Crow each ended the night with 8 points scored, they also drained two shots from three-point range.

Ryley Miller, senior, had three three-pointers on his way to a 15 point showing.  Ian Drobish and Sean O’Brien each had 5 points for the Yellowjackets.  O’Brien was an impressive 5-7 in free-throws.

With the win, Grand Rapids Christian remains a perfect 9-0 in the OK White Conference, 18-1 overall.  They next play this upcoming Tuesday at Mona Shores.  Greenville falls to 4-5 in the OK White, 11-6 overall.  Their next game will also be Tuesday, at Lowell.

Drake Harris (white) puts up a shot.

Christopher Mickey (left) and Sean O'Brien (right) cover Jaylin Staten (center) on defense.

Ian Drobish (#13) takes it to the bucket.

Justin Crow (white) lays out to keep possession of the ball.

Aaron Crebessa moves the ball down the court.

Wuoi Mach (center) fights for a rebound with Christopher Mickey (left) and Ryley Miller (right).

David Pluymert lays it in.

Kurt Hoekstra (right) takes to the air.

Jaylin Staten (#2) guards Sean O'Brien (#3).

Christopher Mickey with an easy bucket.

Matt Philpott Photography was happy to bring you images from tonight’s action.  Please stop by his site to see how you can order prints, and view additional shots!