News Summary
The Grand Valley State University women’s basketball team recently secured the GLIAC Championship, cruising to a 79-48 victory over Ferris State. With a season record of 32-2, the Lakers are gearing up for the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional tournament. Key players Rylie and MacKenzie Bisballe have earned prestigious individual awards, highlighting their outstanding performances. As they face Quincy in the first round of the NCAA tournament, the Lakers aim to carry their championship momentum forward.
Grand Valley State Basketball Teams Shine in GLIAC Championship and NCAA Tournament Preparation
Allendale is buzzing with excitement as the Grand Valley State University (GVSU) basketball teams have proven their mettle this season. The GVSU women’s team, showcasing their talent and teamwork, recently took home the GLIAC Championship trophy, securing an impressive spot in the upcoming NCAA Division II playoffs.
A Winning Weekend
On a thrilling Sunday, the Lakers faced off against Ferris State in the GLIAC tournament championship game. The players were on fire! Junior Molly Anderson, hailing from Cadillac H.S., and senior Rylie Bisballe, native of Lake City H.S., put on a defensive clinic. Their relentless efforts helped the Lakers crush Ferris State with a decisive score of 79-48.
Before that, the team had a solid outing in the semifinal match against Wayne State, where Rylie Bisballe shone bright, contributing nine points along with six rebounds and four assists in a 78-54 victory. Meanwhile, her sister MacKenzie Bisballe also made a mark with seven points and five rebounds.
Outstanding Individual Performances
In the championship game, Rylie once again led the charge for GVSU, putting up 16 points and pulling down 10 rebounds. Let’s not forget MacKenzie, who added 10 points of her own, and Anderson contributed additional support with five rebounds and two assists. The entire team effort was highlighted by their impressive ability to sink seven three-pointers in the first half against Northern Michigan.
A Remarkable Season Record
The Lakers have wrapped up their regular season in style, finishing with a remarkable overall record of 32-2. As they turn their focus to the upcoming NCAA Division II Midwest Regional tournament, the first-round matchup against Quincy is set for Friday. With the momentum of their recent championship victory, the Lakers are hopeful for a strong showing in the tournament.
A Time for Recognition
This season has certainly been one to remember for the Bisballe sisters. Rylie Bisballe has been awarded both the GLIAC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year for the second year in a row, showcasing her impressive averages of 13.5 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. Newcomer MacKenzie Bisballe made her mark as well, earning the title of GLIAC Freshman of the Year with an average of 10.1 points and 4.1 rebounds per game.
A Bright Future Ahead
Although GVSU faced challenges along the way, including a season-ending injury to starting guard Ellie Droste, they have showcased resilience throughout the season. As they look ahead to the NCAA tournament, the Lakers aim to build on their solid performances and continue their winning ways.
Other Local Basketball Successes
It’s not only GVSU that’s finding success on the court this season. Hope College senior Olivia Bellows Gray contributed valiantly in her team’s recent win against Jackson, helping qualify them for the NJCAA national tournament. Meanwhile, University of Wisconsin’s freshman Alie Bisballe Gilde has been pitching well, and Northwood University’s junior Ashlyn Lundquist demonstrated her skills with multiple hits resulting in a 7-6 win over Concordia-St. Paul.
As we lay witness to this fierce competition, it’s clear that basketball in Allendale is alive and thriving, with both GVSU and other local teams making headlines. Here’s to an exhilarating NCAA tournament for the Lakers. Go Lakers!
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Additional Resources
- Cadillac News
- Mining Gazette
- Holland Sentinel
- Fox 17 Online
- Big Rapids News
- Wikipedia: NCAA Division II
- Google Search: Grand Valley State University basketball
- Google Scholar: Grand Valley State University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College basketball
- Google News: GVSU basketball
