Schoolcraft Champions Classic: 5 standout players from the inaugural event

SCHOOLCRAFT - The Eagles hosted the inaugural Schoolcraft Champions Classic Saturday, featuring three engrossing matchups just before the end of winter break.

Benton Harbor (7-2) steamrolled past Vicksburg (3-6) to open up the event. Wyoming Tri-Unity (6-2) then dusted off Adrian Lenawee (6-1) in a battle of ranked D4 schools. The nightcap ended with a thriller, as Schoolcraft’s (6-3) fourth-quarter rally fell just short against Flint Powers (8-0).

Here are five standout players from the event:

Kesean Hobbs, 6-3, Benton Harbor

Just a sophomore, Hobbs displayed a versatile game offensively, while also leading a ferocious full-court press. Hobbs drained 3-pointers, hit mid-range jumpers, got to the rim and effortlessly finished above the rim. He finished the game with 23 points and looked like at least a D2 player at the next level. Three more seasons of Hobbs will be very exciting for all hoops fans in southwest Michigan.

J’Kwon Lewis, 6-1, Benton Harbor

The senior shooter has waited patiently for his time, and is making the most of it as a lethal 3-point shooter. Lewis also scored 23 points against Vicksburg - draining five 3-pointers and consistently making plays on defense. Lewis can get to the basket, but his best asset is his long-range shooting. Benton Harbor has five new starters this season and might just be starting to find their stride.

Keaton Blanker, 5-10, Tri-Unity

One of the best and most underrated players in the state, the Grace Christian committ can score from anywhere on the court. Saturday, Blanker was hot from deep, draining three 3-pointers (on just four attempts) en route to a team-high 16 points. Blanker is also a crafty point guard, who is great at reading pick and rolls. He’s patient with his forwards, and almost always delivers a pass through traffic that winds up in the right hands. Just a fantastic all-around offensive player.

Andrew Caldwell, 6-3, Flint Powers

A transfer from Clarkston, Caldwell has found his home in Flint. The sweet-shooting lefty scored a game-high 25 points while draining a tournament-high six 3-pointers. Caldwell is also great at getting to the basket and can create his own shot. He’s a true baller, who as a junior, has to be generating tons of college attention. On a team filled with next-level players, Caldwell still stands out as special talent.

Luke Rykse (6-5), Kodee Bienz (6-3) & Ryley Bruner (6-3) - Schoolcraft

Three role players stepped up and almost helped the Eagles defeat Flint Powers, who were ranked No. 3 in Division 2. Rykse came alive in the second half, leading the trio with 11 points. He was dangerous from 3-point range and aggressive on defense. Bienz, a sophomore, scored 10 points, also finding his form from long range. Bruner bullied Flint Powers defenders while driving to the rack for 10 more points. If the Eagles can get close to 31 points from these three every game, they might not lose again. Star senior Tucker Walther was, of course, great again, scoring a team-high 21 points, but this game was about the supporting cast.