The Red Hawks traveled to Kellogg Community College and beat the Bruins 96-82. This win moves the men to 12-9 overall and 8-2 in the Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA) Western Conference.
The first half was controlled primarily by the Bruins as they were able to jump out to an early 6-0 lead. Kellogg held the lead until late in the first half when the Red Hawks closed the gap and eventually brought the game to a 38-38 tie at the half.
The Red Hawks switched gears and used full court pressure to change the tone of the game in the second half. The half started with a score at the basket from Gavin Rasler (SO/Niles, MI) leading to immediate pressure that bothered the Bruins. Lake Michigan had 10 out of their 18 steals in the second half and turned many of them in to quick transition baskets. Deion Gatson (SO/Cassopolis, MI) was able to fly around in the press to obtain layups, leading the way for the Red Hawks. When the pressure was broken, Austin Dukesherer (FR/Grandville, MI) protected the back line drawing four charges. Once the Red Hawks took the lead in the second half they never looked back and gained the 96-82 win.
It was another balanced effort for Lake Michigan, as Gavin Rasler once again led the team in scoring with 28 points. Front court teammate Austin Dukesherer added 19, Bryce Saxton (SO/Cassopolis, MI) had 17, Deion Gatson scored 14, and James Smith (SO/Chicago, IL) scored 11.
The Red Hawks next game is on Wednesday February 7, 2018 at Kalamazoo Valley Community College at 7:30 pm. The men are currently in second place in the MCCAA Western Conference.
