On March 4, 2024, the Central Montcalm boys basketball team continued their unbeaten streak, defeating Big Rapids 65-56. Senior Evan Rolston showcased his talent with an impressive 31-point performance, guiding the Hornets to their ninth consecutive win of the season. This victory reinforces their position at the top of the Central State Activities Association (CSAA) standings.
Strong Start and Strategic Play
The match, which was rescheduled from December, saw Central Montcalm take control early on. The Hornets capitalized on the Cardinals’ shooting inconsistencies, establishing a strong offensive presence. Coach Shea Ingles expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “It was ugly, but sometimes it’s good to win ugly. We competed, and that’s what matters.”
Central Montcalm’s balanced attack was evident as they built a 16-8 lead by the end of the first quarter. Despite a brief scoring drought to start the second quarter, they maintained a 30-23 advantage at halftime. Rolston emphasized the importance of energy and focus, saying, “We knew we had to handle business and not let things get too out of control.”
Defensive Strategies and Team Cohesion
The Hornets’ defense played a crucial role in the victory, particularly in containing Big Rapids’ key players. Rolston noted that shutting down the Cardinals’ No. 3 player was a pivotal strategy for their success. “Central Montcalm doesn’t always beat Big Rapids, so we knew we had to keep our streak going,” he added.
As the game progressed, the Hornets extended their lead, with Rolston scoring 10 points in the third quarter alone. Teamwork and effective ball movement were highlighted by both players and coaches alike. “I think we moved the ball extremely well,” Rolston remarked, pointing out the strong camaraderie among teammates. “Outside of basketball, we’re all close friends and we all know each other pretty well.”
The final quarter saw the Hornets maintaining their composure against a determined Big Rapids team, which attempted to close the gap through fouls. This strategy allowed Central Montcalm to secure critical free throws, ultimately sealing the victory. In addition to Rolston’s standout performance, Zayne Cooper and Daniel Zableckis each contributed nine points, while Jamison Johns added eight.
Despite the win, the Hornets faced a setback the following night, suffering an 82-56 loss to undefeated Grant. Rolston acknowledged the need for focus moving forward, stating, “We have to take it game by game. We know we’re good and we know we can compete with anyone.”
As the team prepares for upcoming matches, including a significant game against White Cloud, Coach Ingles emphasized the importance of maintaining their top position in the CSAA White. “We have to keep that mindset of even though we’re sitting at the top, it means nothing right now. You still have to win your next one,” he said, reinforcing the need for continuous effort and humility as they strive for a conference championship.
