Champion Falls To Grace
Grace Christian University used a dominant first half and a decisive edge on the glass to pull away from Champion Christian, 91–74, in Wyoming, Michigan.
Fast start set the tone
Grace Christian came out sharp offensively and built separation early, scoring 54 first-half points to take a 54–35 lead at the break. Champion Christian played Grace evenly after halftime (39–37), but the early deficit was too large to erase.
Rebounding and second-chance control
The biggest statistical separator was rebounding. Grace Christian won the battle 52–34, including a 17–11 advantage on the offensive boards. That extra possession margin helped Grace generate more consistent scoring chances even as Champion Christian tried to pressure and speed up the game.
Balanced scoring leads Grace Christian
Grace Christian got production from multiple starters and key bench minutes:
- Brayden Gable: 17 points (6–11 FG), 7 rebounds, 4 assists
- Aiden Burns: 17 points (7–13 FG), 3 threes, 4 assists, 3 steals
- Isaac DeVisser: 17 points (7–13 FG), 6 rebounds
- Brad Coleman (bench): 17 points, fueled by 9–10 free throws and 9 rebounds
As a team, Grace shot 46.6% from the field and 81.0% at the line (17–21), steady efficiency that prevented any sustained comeback.
Champion Christian's effort and top performers
Champion Christian was led by:
- Fred'Travious Benjamin: 17 points (7–15 FG), 2–2 from three
- Adrian Brown (bench): 12 points, including 2 threes
- Josh Bartig (bench): 12 points, 4 rebounds
- Cam Parker: 10 points and a team-high 8 assists
Champion Christian forced action defensively (17 steals), but it didn't translate into enough scoring to offset the rebounding deficit and a 37.5% shooting night (27–72). Free throws were also a missed opportunity, as Champion Christian went 16–23 (69.6%).
By the numbers
- Final: Grace Christian 91, Champion Christian 74
- Halftime: Grace Christian 54, Champion Christian 35
- Rebounds: Grace Christian 52, Champion Christian 34
- Assists: Grace Christian 21, Champion Christian 11
Grace Christian's early offensive surge and control of the boards proved decisive, powering a comfortable home win despite a more competitive second half.
