By Anthony Clark Jr. | Collegiate Sports Editor
Through adversity and being down a handful of key rotation players, the Grand Rapids Community College men’s basketball team defeated the Lake Michigan College RedHawks 72-66 on Jan. 4.
Freshman forward Jaylen Williams finished with 20 points, four rebounds and four assists. His consistent energy during the course of the season has him leading in points— averaging 23.1 per game.
“We played hard and moved the ball pretty well, it was a rough win but we’re down four rotation players,” Williams noted about the team’s overall performance. “…so to come out with a win in our first conference game is great.”
With this win, the Raiders were able to cease their three-game losing streak and improve their overall record to 8-4. The three of the four losses have occurred during road games, and the Raiders plan to expand on their efforts while facing a three-game road trip.
“We need to cut down on turnovers and continue to play hard and play together,” Williams explained. “…I’m taking us against anybody.”
Freshman guard Peyton Vis dropped 14 points, five rebounds, and four assists, and was a key contributor for the Raiders.
“Yes, I couldn’t have done that without my team though,” mentioned Vis when asked if he hopes to continue these types of numbers. “They pushed the ball well in transition, that’s where I found most of my shots. I think we came out with great energy, and our defense played well.”
The next home game for the team will be at the Ford Fieldhouse Jan. 18 against Glen Oaks Community College. The Raiders tied their last season matchup against the Vikings 1-1. The game is at 3 p.m., which is following the GRCC women’s basketball team that begins at 1 p.m.
Admission is $3 for the public and free to any individuals with a GRCC student I.D.
