By Justin Stulpe
The Grand Rapids Community College men’s basketball team extended their winning streak to five games with a commanding 114-66 victory over Washtenaw Community College. The Raiders were aggressive on both sides of the ball throughout the game, forcing turnovers and converting them into easy buckets that fueled their second consecutive game scoring triple-digit points.
Despite a slow start, GRCC found its groove ultimately leading to the 48-point win. The Raiders led by just four points after 13 minutes of play, but a game-altering 24-4 scoring run, charged by four steals and constant full court, on-ball pressure shifted the momentum to GRCC. That run aided a 26-point lead by halftime, effectively putting the game out of reach for Washtenaw.
The second half followed a similar script, with GRCC controlling the game and scoring 66 points in the frame. A key factor in the Raiders offensive explosion was their dominance on the boards, winning the rebounding battle 31-13, including 13 offensive rebounds. Those second-chance opportunities suffocated any chance of a comeback by the Wolfpack.
The impressive Raiders win was driven by several standout performances, showcasing the formidable depth of the team. Freshman Guard Tyran Thomas led the way with 18 points on 80% shooting, adding a game-high nine rebounds and two steals in just 10 minutes of play. Freshman Guards Jaden Montague and Marshaun Flakes also contributed to the dominant victory, with Montague scoring 13 points and dishing out four assists, while Flakes recorded a game-high six assists to help facilitate the offense, especially on the fast break.
Along with Thomas, Montague and Flakes, sophomore wing Javon Golson and freshman guard Zachary Carlson made significant contributions. Golson was perfect from the field, finishing 6-for-6 for 12 points, while also grabbing seven rebounds. Carlson added 10 points on 62.5% shooting and recorded three steals, tying for the team lead with sophomore guard Bashir Neely.
The Raiders have been masterful during their five-game winning streak, excelling on both offense and defense. The team is playing with confidence and swagger, executing their game plan all the while having fun while pummeling opposing teams. Head Coach Joe Fox says the combination of high-level play and positive team vibes have been vital to their recent success.
“You’re winning a lot more games when you are playing for each other…we are buying into wins which is what is going to get us to where we want to be,” Fox said.
WCC was led by Couron Steele, who scored a game-high 30 points on 75% shooting and grabbed five rebounds. T.J. Pittman added 13 points and five rebounds, with the pair accounting for 65% of the Wolfpack’s scoring.
Now winners of five straight, the Raiders will look to extend their streak on the road with a matchup at North Central Michigan College on Dec. 7. They return home to Ford Fieldhouse on Dec. 10 for a 6:30 p.m. game against Alma College JV.
