Fourth-quarter comeback lifts Byron Center past Warren Lincoln at The D Zone Invitational

CLARKSTON - The Bulldogs are for real, people, they proved that Saturday with a last-second 65-63 victory over Warren Lincoln at The D Zone Invitational.

The Abes - the returning D2 state champs - were down two starters, but still featured two D1 college recruits. They fought hard and seemed to have the advantage entering the fourth quarter.

Warren Lincoln extended their lead to 12 during the fourth, but Byron Center came roaring back and won on a last second put back by Bowling Green signee Camden Karel (6-9).

Warren Lincoln MVP: Geon Hutchins (6-4)

Hutchins, a transfer from Oak Park and Northern Iowa signee, scored 20 points, giving the Abes two elite scorers. His presence was key for the Abes and his intensity helped the rest of the team. Hutchins is a great outside shooter. He also likes the mid-range jumper, which is something of a lost art in basketball. He might be the most underrated D1 recruit of the past few years. That should soon change.

Byron Center MVP: Keane Hinkle (5-11)

Someone give this man an offer. Hinkle is so good. He’s quick, shifty, strong going to the basket and lethal from 3-point range. Hinkle has blossomed into a bona fide star and someone who would fit in nicely on a D2 roster (Davenport, Grand Valley, etc.) He’s a must watch for college coaches and scouts looking for a diamond in the rough.

Team Analysis:

Warren Lincoln

Playing without Moses Blackwell (5-8) and Da’Marion Bozeman (6-5) is a blow, but the Abes played hard and with passion. They were able to see what they look like with Hutchins and Eastern Illinois signee Markus Blackwell (6-2) both hot on the same night. Blackwell finished with 18 points as a versatile and elite scorer who has every chance to lead his team back to the Breslin Center. Don’t sleep on small forward Chris Morgan (6-6). The long wing is a great 3-point shooter who can get hot in a hurry.

Byron Center

Is destiny on this team’s side? The Bulldogs earned another key victory, coming to the east side to show off their talents. Hinke was again great, as was Karel who had his second straight double-double. Karel finished with 16 points and 12 rebounds, showcasing the versatile skill set that helped him get D1 offers. He’s a force to be reckoned with inside and outside. Football star Isaac Lee (6-1) scored 14 points and will be a key player if this team is going to make a long run. Junior guard Cassius Bont (6-2) added 10 points as a physical and skilled player on the rise.