Game analysis: Schoolcraft remains undefeated with cross-town win over Hackett

SCHOOLCRAFT - The Eagles maintained their hold near the top of the D3 rankings Friday with a 57-49 win over Kalamazoo Hackett.

The two teams played a frenetic pace in the first half, with Schoolcraft jumping out to a 32-28 halftime advantage. Things slowed down in the second half, with only seven points scored in the third quarter between the two teams.

Schoolcraft made clutch free throws down the stretch to seal the victory, after Hackett endured some unfortunate foul trouble.

Schoolcraft MVP: Tucker Walther, 6-4 Sr.

A tall, lengthy point guard with an interesting yet effective shot. He’s a great athlete, who even threw down a massive dunk. His ability to play point guard should make him a favorable recruiting prospect. He scored a game–high 24 points and was clutch in the fourth quarter, never looking fazed by the big moments. He also worked well with 6-9 junior Jimmy Miller on both ends of the court.

Hackett MVP: Brooks Basler, 6-0 Sr.

With explosive scorers Elijah Brooks and Leland Berg fouled out early in the fourth quarter, Basler stepped up to push Hackett. He scored a team-high 13 points, hitting shots and getting to the basket. He’s a valuable piece on an underrated team. Had Hackett been able to stay out of foul trouble, they might have won, and Berg’s steadying presence would have been a big reason why.