Warriors Defeat Oakridge 67-63 in OT

The Western Michigan Christian boys basketball team opened up their season in style Tuesday with 67-63 overtime win over Oakridge.

The Warriors led 17-16 at the first break, but took a 29-29 tie into halftime and a 41-41 tie heading into the final period before ending regulation tied 56-56.

Hayden Hubers forced the overtime period by hitting seven of eight free throws in the final minutes of the game to close the gap.

In overtime, freshman Kellen Mitchell drilled a 3-pointer to put the Warriors up 63-57, only to be answered by an Oakridge 3-pointer. The Warriors’ other varsity freshman, Owen Varnado, hit a free throw to take a four-point lead before Mitchell connected on three free throws to push the lead to seven. The Eagles hit a 3-pointer as time expired to bring the game to tis final tally.

Senior Zack Butkis led WMC with 20 points, including three 3-pointers. Hubers chipped in 16 points, while Mitchell added 10.

“Tonight was a really fun first night for our team,” said WMC head coach Kurt Gruppen. “It was great to play in such a close game this early in the year and learn how to win a close game. We had several guys step up in crucial situations tonight. Zach Butkis had a strong game for us and really shot the ball well in the first half. Hayden Hubers was able to get to the rim and convert a few layups finishing with 16 points.

“As a team we were able to connect on our free throws which contributed significantly to the win. I was proud of the way guys stepped up and we stuck together as a team tonight. We are excited to get back to practice and work on improving."

The Warriors host Grandville Calvin Christian next Tuesday.