The Portage Central Mustangs celebrated a significant milestone on December 19, 2023, as senior guard Ben Johnson scored his 1,000th career point during a dominating 75-44 victory over Battle Creek Lakeview. Johnson achieved this impressive feat with a three-pointer in the third quarter, becoming only the second player in the program’s history to reach this milestone, joining Austin McCullough, who accomplished the same in 2017.
With the home crowd cheering him on, Johnson’s moment of triumph came when he sank an uncontested shot from beyond the arc, sparking a jubilant celebration at center court with his teammates. In this game, Johnson contributed a total of 11 points. Leading the scoring for the Mustangs was Kardi Colbert, who netted 19 points, followed by Gladson Lerebours with 9 points, Chase Fyke with 8 points, and AJ Giebel also contributing 8 points.
Portage Central’s record now stands at 3-3, following a subsequent loss to Marian on December 20, 2023. Their next matchup is scheduled for January 6, 2024, against Benton Harbor at home.
Schoolcraft Stages Dramatic Comeback Against Parchment
In another thrilling high school basketball game on December 19, 2023, the Schoolcraft Eagles pulled off a stunning comeback against Parchment, winning 57-54. Trailing by 15 points at the start of the fourth quarter, Schoolcraft relied on a strong performance from Ty Goddard and Jimmy Miller, who combined for 20 points in the final quarter.
Goddard hit three crucial three-pointers, while Miller led all scorers with 29 points. Parchment had built its lead with a solid performance in the third quarter, outscoring Schoolcraft 15-9 with contributions from Donjae Gilmore-Slater, who scored a pair of three-pointers, and BJ Hunt, who added four points. Despite this, Schoolcraft’s defense limited Parchment to just four points in the fourth quarter, allowing them to secure a significant road victory.
Following this win, Schoolcraft’s record improved to 3-1, while Parchment’s record now stands at 4-3. Schoolcraft will next face Centreville on December 26, 2023, while Parchment will host Delton Kellogg on January 6, 2024.
Overall, the recent games showcased not only individual talent but also the resilience and determination of teams in high school basketball, providing thrilling moments for fans and players alike.
