Warren Lincoln returns to full strength; topples Chippewa Valley

The Abes are back. Fresh off a D2 state championship, Warren Lincoln (5-3) suffered some injury woes this season. That all changed Thursday with a 78-60 win over Chippewa Valley (10-2).

Da’Marion Bozeman (6-5) and Moses Blackwell (5-8), two college prospects, were both sidelined at points this season. Bozeman returned before Christmas break, while Blackwell returned to the lineup tonight.

Blackwell dazzled in his season debut with a couple 3-pointers and some dazzling dribbling and acrobatics around the basket. This team is nearly unbeatable at full strength.

Warren Lincoln MVP: Markus Blackwell, 6-2

The Eastern Michigan commit is a silky, bulk scorer who is making a strong case for Mr. Basketball nomination. Blackwell is a great shooter, highlighted by his halftime buzzer-beating 3-pointer. He also has a high basketball I.Q., who seemingly always makes the right decision. The Abes have lost some toughness from last year’s squad, but Blackwell looks like he’s ready to assume some of that responsibility as well.

Chippewa Valley MVP: Justin Gloster, 6-4

Whenever Gloster, a transfer from Clintondale, was on the court, Chippewa Valley surged. But when he was on the bench, Chippewa Valley lacked the height and athleticism to match up with the Abes. Gloster hit a couple 3-pointers, blocked shots and even handled the ball a bit. He’s a versatile player who makes this team a contender for a long run come March.

Team Analysis

Warren Lincoln

The Abes’ best lineup consists of the Blackwell brothers, Northern Iowa commit Geon Hutchins (6-4), a transfer from Oak Park, Bozeman and Christopher Morgan (6-6). It’s one of the best starting lineups in Michigan, certainly worthy of a repeat D2 state title. Any team with three potential D1 college players and a couple more D2 prospects will make some noise, but this team is super athletic and play well together. If Lincoln overcomes their lack of physicality, this team will hear “One Shining Moment" again at the Breslin Center.

Chippewa Valley

Chippewa has been a nice story this year, bolstered by a pair of transfers. Gloster is an incredible athlete, but junior UD Jesuit transfer Jaden Brown (6-2) leads the team in scoring most nights. He’s a big-bodied guard who has become a load in the paint. Brandon Bellante (6-4) has a nice outside shot and gets into the mix for rebounds, while Cassidy Sanders (6-3) makes plays when called upon. Joshua Jay Johnson (5-10) is one of the most fun players to watch in the state. He has great upside as a fantastic floor general with a solid 3-point shot.