Why Basketball is More than Just the NBA

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The NBA is the most-loved basketball league on the planet. It is home to the best of the best and continues to get better year on year. You can tell by the sheer number of non-Americans who now play at this level of the game that the NBA is regarded as the pinnacle by people from all over the world. It is where every budding baller wants to be.

 

However, as good as the NBA obviously is, there is an entire world outside of professional basketball in the US. Most NBA fans will be familiar with the NCAA and will already be honing their college basketball betting systems in time for the spectacle that is March Madness. But even that glorious tournament is just the tip of the global hoops iceberg.

 

We have dedicated ourselves to bringing you sports events from outside of the top leagues and subscription sites. Don’t get us wrong, we love the NBA. But if you have rarely strayed away from that league for your hoops experience, allow us to explain why you should look further afield – and why basketball outside of the NBA is so exciting.

 

Heroes Have to Come From Somewhere

 

The most obvious aspect of exploring other leagues apart from the NBA is that the star athletes that you are currently cheering on for the Knicks, Celtics, and Thunder have not just magically appeared in the professional game. Some may have come over from the top European leagues (which you should also definitely check out, by the way) but many will have been drafted from the NCAA.

 

Almost every NBA hero was once tearing up the courts in college basketball. If you haven’t bothered watching college games before, you have missed out on witnessing some of your favorite athletes develop over time. Following the journey from high school through college and into the pro game can give you incredible insight into what it takes to be a top NBA athlete – and also allows you to show off your knowledge to your friends!

 

College Hoops is Unreal

 

The other thing about NCAA basketball is that it comes with a huge rush of adrenaline. The conference season is exciting enough, as the teams play their old rivals in front of incredibly passionate crowds, hoping to win a conference title in the process. But it is what comes after that you should definitely be interested in.

 

The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is better known as March Madness – and that is not a moniker that is open to any exaggeration. With 68 of the best men’s collegiate programs in the running, this tournament captures the imagination of every sports fan each year and always leaves us wanting more drama. The women’s tournament is just as good and it is simply unlike any other sports event in the world.

 

Local Sports Help Communities Grow

 

So, we’ve sold you on checking out some college hoops. How about looking a little further back in the development of players? You may never have gotten anywhere near your old high school basketball roster but that doesn’t mean that you can’t become one of its biggest fans now that you are an adult.

 

Getting behind your local high school team – or a club from your home town – is a great way to support local communities and businesses. Investing your time and money into your local area through the medium of sports is the perfect way to help build stronger community relations while also getting a heads up on some potential NBA stars of the future.

 

Something to Work Towards

 

For young players, the NBA is undoubtedly the ultimate goal. Being picked in the draft is something that millions of people dream of, even though only a very select few will ever taste the experience. That doesn’t mean that young, student athletes should give up though. Having something to work towards is one of the most important aspects of any walk of life.

 

We have talked about the importance of young people being involved in sports many times on this site and basketball is just the same. The teamwork, responsibility, and confidence that youth sports instils is invaluable. Even if a student is not playing but just involved in the program, there is still a lot that can be taken into future life.

 

A Pure Game

 

The NBA may be one of the most-loved sports leagues in the world but it also attracts the same kind of attention as all major professional competitions. There is so much money involved in elite sports these days that sometimes the fans can become tired of the attitude that comes along with it.

 

It can seem like the money is the only thing that counts for athletes and the media is only interested in the lifestyles of the top pros. Taking a step back and exploring college, high school, and even kids’ hoops can remind you of a much more innocent time when it was just the game that mattered. This purer form of hoops can be very attractive to many jaded older basketball fans.

Figure 2 Watching games at a local level can be hugely rewarding – Source: Unsplash

Support Non-Professional Basketball

 

We are not advocating ignoring the NBA and the professional game. It is a fantastic league that showcases the very best athletes in the world playing arguably the greatest form of the game. But we just want you to know that there is a lot more hoops out there for you to explore.

 

Find out when your local high school team is playing and get along to a game. Watch college sports throughout the season and marvel at the extravaganza that is March Madness. Get involved with the game at as many levels as you can and we promise that you will become a much more devoted – and knowledgeable – fan.

 

 

 

CRESTVIEW GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH AARON BLATCH 1/22/25

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COLUMBIANA OH- In a riveting episode of YSN Live, hosts Anthony Hartwig and DJ Yokley sat down with Aaron Blatch, the head coach of Crestview’s undefeated girls’ basketball team. The conversation illuminated Blatch’s coaching philosophy, team dynamics, and the journey that has brought his program to the apex of success in the NBAC.

Blatch, who has helmed the team for several seasons, credits the success to the exceptional character and talent of his players, emphasizing the collective effort put in by the entire coaching staff, including his brother and fellow coaches John Gallagher and Cassie Spate. He remarked, “We have a lot of great kids and amazing players. Seeing them improve individually and collectively is very rewarding for us.” Patience has been a cornerstone of Blatch’s approach, as Anthony Hartwig noted. Blatch discussed the importance of steady progress and the contributions of previous teams in laying the groundwork for their current achievements. “Anything worthwhile is going to take some time,” Blatch shared, highlighting the collaborative effort across different levels of the program.

The episode also touched on the team’s strategically strengthened schedule, featuring games against high-caliber opponents like Hoban, Streetsboro, and Massillon Washington. Blatch explained that the tougher schedule is part of a long-term strategy to prepare the team for the postseason. “We wanted the schedule with the big picture in mind,” Blatch stated, underscoring the importance of challenging matchups in building resilience and skill. A recurring theme in the discussion was the remarkable team chemistry and selflessness among players, which has been pivotal in their dominant season. Yokley praised this aspect, likening their coordinated play to synchronized swimming. Blatch agreed, noting the unique talents each player brings to the floor and the absence of ego-driven competition. “It speaks to the character of the team,” he said.

As the season progresses, Blatch remains focused on further improvement and maintaining the team’s high standards. He acknowledged the challenges posed by winter weather disruptions but remained unfazed, stressing that off-days can sometimes be beneficial for the team’s overall well-being. Blatch’s leadership and the team’s collective effort have positioned Crestview as a formidable force in high school basketball. The future looks bright as they head toward the postseason, aiming to capitalize on their hard work and talent. For listeners seeking inspiration and insight into building a successful sports program, this episode of YSN Live featuring Coach Aaron Blatch is a treasure trove of wisdom and dedication.

Presented By:

WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 6) FEATURING JAKE HUGHES

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In an electrifying segment of “Wrestling Wednesday” on YSN, freshman Jake Hughes of Beaver Local took center stage to discuss his meteoric rise in the high school wrestling scene. Hosted by DJ Yokley with contributions from Gary Althiser, the episode highlighted Jake’s accomplishments, mindset, and future aspirations.

Jake Hughes, who recently clinched the 157-pound title at the OVAC tournament, made a memorable impression not only with his performance but also with his post-victory celebration. “After that match, I kind of looked at him and he was like, let’s go. And I went over and grabbed it,” Jake recounted his flag-carrying moment, which has since become legendary among YSN fans. The young wrestler attributes his early success to rigorous training and high-level practice from a young age. “I’ve been training at the highest level all my life. So going out there on the high school mat’s no different than going out there with practicing with these kids my whole life,” Jake explained, underscoring the value of his preparation.

When asked about the nerves accompanying his freshman year, Jake remained unfazed. “Obviously, the nerves are there a little bit before every single match you have, but I try to make it more of like, excitement and turn it into more of a positive thing,” he shared, reflecting a maturity that belies his age. A key component of Jake’s training regime includes wrestling mindset sessions. These weekly lessons have been instrumental in helping him manage pressure and maintain focus. “It’s helped me out a lot over the past year… with relaxing under pressure and knowing that you’re ready,” he noted.

Gary Althiser, an experienced voice in the wrestling community, pointed out that Hughes’ rigorous tournament schedule, including stops at Cambridge, Brecksville, and EOWL, has been crucial in preparing him for the postseason. Jake concurred, acknowledging that every tournament is a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal. Despite his youth, Jake maintains a disciplined lifestyle, evident in his choice of post-weigh-in meals: a Pedialyte and an uncrustable peanut butter and jelly sandwich. His primary drilling partner, three-time state placer Bobby Bucheit, plays a significant role in pushing him to new heights in practice. The support system of coaches, particularly Adam Cabala, and his family has been pivotal in Jake’s success. “Adam Cabala has been my main coach, like, as far as outside of the Beaver Local room, and he’s been helping me a lot… [and] even like, my parents being there, supporting me when I’m at home,” Jake acknowledged.

Looking ahead, Jake aims not only for personal glory but also to honor the legacy of Beaver Local wrestling. When asked what advice he would give his younger self, Jake emphasized the importance of enjoying the journey: “Just to have fun with it because at the end of the day it is just a sport and you need to have fun with it.” As the wrestling community anticipates his future performances, Jake’s level-headed attitude and dedication suggest a promising career ahead. His current focus remains on taking one match at a time while keeping his ultimate goals in sight. Jake Hughes’ appearance on “Wrestling Wednesday” underscored not just his talent and potential, but also his humble, hardworking nature. His journey is one that wrestling enthusiasts will eagerly follow, as he continues to make his mark on the sport.

Presented By:

CATCHING UP WITH CARMINE

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POLAND, OH – Junior basketball sensation Carmine Tukalo of Poland High School continues to make headlines. Following a breakout sophomore season that thrust him into the spotlight, Tukalo is now one of the most formidable players in his conference, expertly balancing new leadership responsibilities and elevated expectations.

Reflecting on his rapid ascent, Tukalo attributes his success to his consistent play style and the solid support from his teammates. He notes that familiarity with his game has made other teams more aggressive, but his confidence and trust in his teammates have bolstered his performance this season. “Just stick to my game and play the same way I did last year,” Tukalo said. “I’m surrounded with a bunch of my teammates that I love and I trust.” Tukalo’s leadership extends beyond his on-court prowess. As an underclassman, he began cultivating a team spirit that has persisted into his junior year. Despite a rough start this season, Tukalo and his teammates have found their rhythm, currently riding a winning streak that showcases their resilience.

His basketball journey is rooted deeply in his early passion for the sport. Starting at the tender age of four at the YMCA, Tukalo’s dedication blossomed in middle school, where competitive tournaments across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Ohio honed his skills significantly. These experiences have not only improved his game but also offered him a glimpse of the wider basketball world, complete with scouts and high-level competition. As Tukalo navigates the crucial junior year recruiting trail, he remains focused on his development and potential college prospects, expressing a particular affinity for the University of Pittsburgh—his parents’ alma mater. In addition to basketball, Tukalo is also a standout baseball player. He values the continuous competitive environment, seamlessly transitioning from the basketball court to the baseball diamond each season. His athletic versatility is matched by academic diligence, despite the demanding schedule.

Off the court, Tukalo cherishes the unwavering support from his family, who attend every game and provide constructive feedback. This familial foundation, coupled with Coach Fender’s trust and guidance, has been integral to his development. “My family is always there to support me, and Coach Fender has pushed me to be the best I can be,” Tukalo remarked. Carmine Tukalo’s story is one of hard work, dedication, and community support, promising an exciting future for this young athlete as he continues to lead and inspire.

Presented By:

KNIGHTS CLIP THE CHIPPS

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By Ty Bartell

 

AKRON, OH — The Archbishop Hoban Knights girls basketball team rebounded from their second loss of the season in commanding fashion, rolling to a 77-37 victory over the Chippewa Chipps on Wednesday night.

Hoban (14-2) wasted no time asserting control, using a strong second quarter to pull away and cruise to victory. The Knights led 16-11 after the first quarter but exploded for 22 points in the second, holding Chippewa (9-7) to just eight points to take a commanding 38-19 lead at halftime.

The Knights’ relentless pressure continued into the second half, outscoring the Chipps 27-13 in the third quarter and closing out the game with a stifling defensive effort.

Niera “Zig” Stevens led the way for Hoban, pouring in 18 points, while Finley Kennedy added 12. Ella Greer and Zoey Hodge contributed 11 and 10 points, respectively, with Taylyn Banta and Amariya Davis each chipping in six.

Kate Weidt earned Knight of the Night honors for her work on the glass, grabbing 8 rebounds and her workers mentality of not missing a practice this season. Ella Greer got Player of the Game nods for her 11 points scored in her varsity debut! Interviews with both players, as well as Coach Pam Davis can be found below!

Chippewa was paced by Delaney Marshall, who tallied a game-high 17 points. Elana Moyer added seven points, while Myra Lewis and Aira Regan each scored four.

The Knights will look to continue their winning momentum on Thursday, January 23, when they travel to face St. Joseph Academy (10-6). Tip-off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.

DOUBLE THE K’S DOUBLE THE TALENT

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STRUTHERS OH- In the newest Struthers Girls Basketball Player Profile, Anthony Hartwig sat down with Katelyn Kimble, a standout senior on the team, to discuss her emotional final year, comeback from injury, and aspirations for the future.

Katelyn’s senior year has been marked by a renewed appreciation for every moment on the court, following a challenging ACL injury last season. The injury, which sidelined her for much of her junior year, has not dampened her spirit. Instead, it has strengthened her resolve to make every game count. “Knowing that I worked my way back to where I’m at right now… it was just amazing for me,” Katelyn shared. Kimble’s leadership extends beyond her physical prowess on the court. She has earned the respect of her teammates and coaches alike through her attitude and commitment. “I try and lead by example as much as I can, going into practice every day with a good attitude,” Katelyn explained. This positive mindset has been pivotal in setting an example for underclassmen like Gianna, Martin, Viv, and Bella.

Her partnership with fellow senior Ava has been particularly meaningful. The duo has been playing together since third grade, and their on-court chemistry is evident. Whether it’s their post-practice shooting routines or their shared emotional journey, Katelyn and Ava represent a legacy of dedication and camaraderie at Struthers. The importance of strong leadership has been further enforced by Coach M, who stepped up in her new role this year. Katelyn noted the unique balance of motivative intensity and calm guidance Coach M provides, which has positively impacted the team’s dynamic. “She’s picking up the role that she was handed. She’s doing great,” said Katelyn.

Besides her basketball feats, Katelyn excels academically, maintaining a 3.9 GPA while also taking YSU classes. Her focus is on early education, driven by her passion for working with children and inspiring the next generation. Among her supporters, Katelyn is particularly grateful to her family, including her parents, step-parents, siblings, coaches, and teammates. Their continuous support has been a cornerstone of her journey. Reflecting on her impact, Katelyn mentioned the young girls of Struthers who look up to her, aspiring to emulate her path. It’s an honor she carries with humility and pride, much like the respect she has earned from opposing coaches in the league.

As Katelyn Kimble concludes her high school basketball journey, she leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the “Struthers Way.” The community watches eagerly as she steps confidently into the future, both on and off the court.

Presented By:

TITAN MEN DEALT LOSS AT DUAL BY FLORIDA SOUTHERN

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LAKELAND, Fla.–The Westminster College men’s swimming and diving program opened the new year with a 118-70 dual meet loss at Florida Southern College, currently the 16th-ranked Division II program in the nation, inside the Nina B. Hollis Wellness Center Pool Monday afternoon.

Florida Southern evened its dual meet record at 2-2 with the win. Westminster fell to 1-5 in dual meet action this season.

Senior Cory Webster (Coraopolis, Pa., Moon) finished first in the 100 freestyle with a Division III “B” cut and personal-best time of 44.94 seconds. Sophomore Hayne Webster (Wellsboro, Pa., Wellsboro) was the runner-up in the 100 freestyle with a time of 45.33 and finished third in the 100 breaststroke (1:15.37).

Seniors Sam Duda (Tulsa, Okla., Bishop Kelley) and Mason Peck (Cary, N.C., Panther Creek) were second and third, respectively, in the 500. Duda finished in 5:18.50 while Peck finished in 5:46.61. Freshmen Avery Bumbach (Ocala, Fla., Forest) and Ethan Schohn (Pittsburgh, Pa., Plum) finished second and third in the 100 butterfly. Bumbach posted a time of 56.81 while Schohn finished with a time 1:00.44. Freshman Jack Katigbak (North Canton, Ohio, Lake Center Christian) and senior Steel Boyer (Mohrsville, Pa., Schuylkill Valley) were second and third in the 100 backstroke, with Katigbak registering a runner-up time of 59.20 while Boyer finished in 1:10.64. Senior Patrick Benedict (Pittsburgh, Pa., Upper St. Clair) was second in the 100 breaststroke with a time of 1:10.27.

Westminster capped off the meet with a first-place finish in the 200 freestyle relay, registering a time of 1:35.06. Members of the relay included Bumbach, Schohn, Duda and Katigbak.

Up Next
Westminster will travel to The College of Wooster on Saturday. The non-conference dual meet is scheduled to get underway at 1 p.m. inside the Timken Natatorium.

How to Bet on Basketball: Helpful Tips for Smart Wagering

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Besides being a profitable venture, basketball betting is also exciting for those who fully understand it. It is characterized by numerous betting options that offer so many opportunities not only for seasoned bettors but also for newbies.

However, before getting into the world of betting, you must understand some beneficial concepts and the different types of betting.

Types of Basketball Bets

  1. Moneyline Bets:- Simply about betting on which team will win the game, for example, Golden State Warriors (-150) vs. Boston Celtics (+130). Staking $150 on the Warriors gives a return of $100 while staking $100 on Celtics guarantees a return of $130.
  2. Totals:- This is betting on whether a combined score of both teams goes over or under a set figure. For example, over 210.5 means that the total score must be 211 or higher for the bet to win.
  3. Points Spread:- This is a bet purely based on the winning margin. The favorite must win by more than the spread for you to win. For example, (Warriors -5.5 vs. Celtics +5.5). The Warriors must win by more than 6 points for them to cover the spread.
  4. Parlays:- A combination of multiple selected bets in a single wager, where all selections must be successful for the parlay to pay out.
  5. Proposition Bets:- Proposition bets (or Props) are based on specific events or player performances. You can bet on the number of points to be scored by a player or the first side to hit a particular mark in a match.
  6. Futures:- Futures are simply bets focused on what is bound to happen in the future, like betting on Celtics to win the NBA, or Lebron James to win the MVP at the end of the season.
  7. Live Betting:- This is a type of betting that takes place during a game, with odds adjusting according to real-time stats.

Helpful Tips for Successful Basketball Betting

  1. Conduct Extensive Research

Knowledge is power everywhere you go. Orient yourself with both team and player stats, including available players, injuries, form, and head-to-head. If betting on the NBA, for example, get acquainted with all the necessary information, checking out the different picks from pros to see whether they align with yours.

  1. Observe Key Factors

Several factors, such as home-ground advantage or the pace of play, can influence a game of basketball. Historically, most teams have enjoyed playing on familiar grounds, where they have enjoyed massive fan support. Similarly, some teams end up getting involved in high-scoring duels due to the fast-paced nature of their play.

  1. Go for the Best Odds

You will find different sportsbooks offering varying odds for each market. To maximize your earnings, analyze multiple betting sites to ensure you’re getting the most out of your bets.

  1. Practice Bankroll Management

Before engaging in basketball betting, or whatever form of sports betting, ensure that you have a set budget. Betting is all about winning and losing, and you can only hurt your finances when you chase losses by staking larger than usual on bets.

  1. Study and Understand Available Markets, then Focus

You will find several markets on offer at different sportsbooks. Take your time to analyze what is available before going all in. Focus on the markets you understand better, paying special attention to the teams and players you know better. Specializing on specific markets gives you an edge, whether you’re betting on the NBA or the NCAA.

  1. Keep Abreast with Line Movements

Odds and spreads keep fluctuating heading into a game. Stay updated on what is happening in terms of odds, the factors leading to drops and rises in these odds, and any other factor that could help in making successful wagers.

Do not ignore situational factors, such as player fatigue due to long road trips and congested fixtures, which could impact the team’s energy levels.

  1. Do not let emotions lead you

In sports betting, it is easy to get carried away by emotions, especially when your favorite team is involved. Not to say that betting is entirely for sports fans, but these are ventures that find themselves intertwined in most cases. It is advisable to wager according to available data and analysis rather than emotions and instincts.

  1. Bonus Point: Keep Records

Always keep track of all your betting activities, including the type of bets, odds, amount, and outcomes. Reviewing your bets helps you a big deal in identifying patterns and areas that need your attention.

 

To basketball fans, betting only adds to the thrill of the many twists of the game. To those whose primary focus is on betting, there is a need for extensive preparation and a good bit of learning. Keeping up with the latest news and employing smart basketball betting practices may not guarantee winning but highly improve your chances of turning your stake into profits.

 

Josh Heupel’s Fourth Season Brings Tennessee to the College Football Playoff Spotlight

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In just four seasons, Josh Heupel has turned Tennessee into a College Football Playoff contender. The No. 9 Vols (10-2) are set to clash with No. 8 Ohio State (10-2) this Saturday at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, with an 8 p.m. ET kickoff on ABC. The stakes? A ticket to face No. 1 Oregon (13-0) at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on New Year’s Day. It’s a moment fans have been dreaming about, but let’s not overlook the sports bettors having their own field day with this matchup.

 

Speaking of betting, if you’re thinking about spicing up your game-day experience, you might want to know that plenty of offshore sites, like those on this list compiled by bestoffshoresportsbooks.bet, make it easy to place bets on college sports. These platforms cover every sport such as baseball, basketball, football, and more. They operate and are regulated offshore, meaning they’re safe and easy to use for all – no matter what state you live in. So, whether you’re feeling optimistic about Tennessee’s red-zone defense or believe Ohio State’s offensive precision is the safer pick, these platforms offer various options. Betting and football? It’s a match made in game-day heaven.

 

Now, about that red zone. The Vols and Buckeyes boast some fascinating stats when it comes to those critical 20 yards. Ohio State is a machine, converting 77.6% of its red-zone trips into touchdowns, ranking them fourth nationally. But Tennessee is no slouch on defense, shutting down opponents in the red zone with the fourth-best touchdown prevention rate at 44.1%. Heupel has hammered home the importance of making those stops, saying, “If you can hold them to field goals, it changes the way the game’s played.”

 

On the flip side, Ohio State’s defense is lights-out in red-zone situations, allowing scores on only 55.2% of trips, with just 10 red-zone touchdowns all season. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s offense has been more inconsistent in capitalizing on scoring opportunities, with a middling touchdown rate of 61.7%. Heupel isn’t blind to the challenge, adding, “Offensively, we’ve got to find a way to get seven down there.”

 

And who’s leading the charge for Tennessee? None other than quarterback Nico Iamaleava, the highly touted redshirt freshman who’s come into his own this season. He’s closed out the year with a 68.4% completion rate, 1,099 passing yards, and 11 touchdowns in November alone. The kid’s got poise, and his ability to stay calm under pressure has been a game-changer. 

 

But let’s not forget the Vols’ defensive backbone: cornerbacks Jermod McCoy and Rickey Gibson III. McCoy’s four interceptions and second-team All-American nod are a testament to his skill, while Gibson III has been a reliable presence in the secondary. Defensive coordinator Tim Banks credits their performance with allowing the team to experiment more with schemes. 

 

MCDONALD CLAIMS BATTLE OF THE BLUE DEVILS

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By Ty Bartell

 

BERLIN CENTER, OH — The McDonald Blue Devils claimed a hard-fought 56-47 victory over the Western Reserve Blue Devils on Tuesday night in the first “Battle of the Blue Devils” matchup of the season. The win helps McDonald maintain their strong position in the Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference’s (MVAC) Scarlet Division standings.

McDonald stormed out of the gates, outscoring Western Reserve 18-6 in the opening quarter. By halftime, McDonald held a 28-16 lead. Western Reserve mounted a fierce comeback in the third quarter, briefly taking the lead at 36-35, but McDonald responded with a dominant fourth quarter to secure the win.

Brady Klockner led McDonald (4-2, 3-0 MVAC) with 14 points, including four three-pointers. Drew Zajack added 11 points, while Brenden Emerick contributed 10. Joey Cappuzzello and Casey Miller tallied 8 and 6 points, respectively, and Chris Ragazzine rounded out the scoring with 5 points.

Dom Ricciardi paced Western Reserve (4-4, 2-2 MVAC) with a game-high 18 points, followed by Connor Cochran with 16 points and Josh Klasic with 9 points.

McDonald will hit the road again on Monday, December 23rd, for another conference matchup against the Waterloo Vikings (1-4, 1-3 MVAC) with tip-off set for 7 p.m. Western Reserve will also be in action that evening, traveling to face the Lowellville Rockets (1-5, 1-3 MVAC) in an MVAC contest.