Men Win First Game Of Season
Friday night was the season opener for many programs around the country, including the Red Hawks men’s basketball team, as they traveled to Montcalm Community College.
The Red Hawks jumped out to a quick seven-point lead and never looked back, leading Montcalm Community College over the course of the entire game. The men went into halftime leading by 32 points, thanks to stifling defense by Michael Thornton and Jeremias Berchal, and a great shooting performance by Jovon Dancy Jr.
Lake Michigan started off the second half with some untimely turnovers and missed shots, but the lead never dipped below 26 points. The Red Hawks lead grew as much as 35 points in the second half and ended with a 28-point victory over the Centurions.
Jovon Dancy Jr. lead the Red Hawks with 32 points, including nine three-point shots, nine rebounds, three assists, and one blocked shot. Dancy's 32 points are the most in a Red Hawk uniform since 2017, and his nine three-point makes are the most since prior to the 2012 season.
Jeremias Berchal added 14 points, including a thunderous two-handed dunk for his first collegiate points, along with five steals and four assists.
Michael Thornton and David Nichols both added 10 points and added to the Red Hawks' effort on the defensive end, combining for four total steals and intense on-ball pressure. Thornton also added three assists to the Red Hawks 17 total assists for the night.
The men look to continue their hot start to the season on November 6, 2024 at Hope College with a 7:00 pm tip-off.