The Vikings men's basketball team (3-0) played their first home game of the season Wednesday night in Sisam Arena against Midland Lutheran College. Despite a slow start and a cold night shooting, Grand View was able to defeat Midland Lutheran 72-58.
The 7th ranked Vikings led 37-34 at halftime, despite shooting 27 percent from 3-point range and only connected on three 3-points attempts in the first half. On the other hand, Midland Lutheran shot a blistering 45 percent from the field and were led by their standout guard Jason Ahrens. The second half however saw the Vikings defense step to the forefront and keep Ahrens from continuing his hot shooting. Grand View's defense held the Warriors to only 24 second half points, while scoring 35 themselves.
The Vikings continued their balance scoring as they had four players in double figures. Senior Joey Terpstra led the Vikings in scoring with 14, to go along with his five rebounds off the bench. Senior Matt Banzhaf finished with 13 points and was one of the main factors to Ahrens second half struggles, as he matched up on him most of the second half. Senior Corey Viet and sophomore Kevin Smith continued their strong post play, finishing the night with 12 points. Viet ended up with 8 rebounds, while Smith grabbed 6 rebounds of his own. Senior Greg Schulz and Banzhaf led the Vikings with 4 assists apiece.
Grand View will be on the road this weekend as they compete in the Maple City Hoopfest Tournament. In the first game on Friday night the Vikings will be matched up with #16 ranked Cornerstone University (MI). The following night Grand View will play either Holy Cross (IN) or Goshen College (IN).
