Flint Powers cements state contender status with win over Gabriel Richard at The D Zone Showcase.

Flint Powers held on to win 69-66 over Riverview Gabriel Richard Friday night at Birmingham Groves for The D Zone Showcase.

Both teams reached the Breslin Center in their respective divisions last season, and have the talent and ambition to make it back.

The Chargers built up a comfortable halftime lead, but Gabriel Richard came roaring back, taking advantage of missed free throws and turnovers. But they just couldn’t finish the comeback with a win.

Flint Powers MVP: Cull twins (6-5)

The pair aren’t as tall as advertised, but they do everything on the court. They can handle the ball, shoot 3-pointers, rebound and block shots. There is no glaring weakness in either of their games. Having two versatile players like that, plus a future college point guard in Javontae Ross, explains why this team has a great chance at returning to the Breslin this winter. Jesse Cull scored nine points, while Dempsey Cull scored 15 points in the win.

Riverview Gabriel Richard MVP: Nick Sobush (5-11)

Sobush is more than just an x-factor on a team with two D2 college players on it. He’s the heart and soul of the roster, making all the tough plays, guarding opponents’ best players and hitting 3-pointers from the wings and corners. Sobush is a tad undersized but he plays with strength and passion throughout the game. He scored 23 points in Friday’s loss, but he was a key reason why Gabriel Richard made a second-half rally.

Team Analysis

Flint Powers

This team got a steal when former Clarkston guard Andrew Caldwell (6-3) transferred over. The sweet-shooting wing poured in a team-high 21 points, impressing with a nearly flawless outside shot. He also displayed terrific athleticism and versatility as a playmaker. As just a junior, he’s a name to watch. Ross recently returned from injury, and he was still getting a few kinks out, but he scored seven points and was a steadying presence. The Cull twins are a nearly impossible matchup for most teams, and shooters Danny Wolak and Eli Sturgess offer even more offensive weapons.

Gabriel Richard

This team is primed to contend for a state title in D3 this season with a starting lineup that could contend against most D1 teams. Saginaw Valley commit Charles Cage (6-8) scored 10 points including a monstrous dunk, as he continues to grow as an offensive threat. Sobush is a ball of energy who provides points and leadership. Luke Westerdale (6-0) scored 11 points. He has D2 college offers from Wayne State and Ferris State. Drew Everingham (6-6) has grown taller since last season, and he added 15 points. He looks like a future college player as well. Drew Lasko (6-1) is a good outside shooter and a relentless defender who adds some toughness to the team.