The Hopkins boys’ varsity basketball team captured its third consecutive victory in an unusual Thursday night non-league encounter against West Michigan Aviation Academy.

Tristen Perry led all scorers with 19 points, followed by 11 from Zander Hitzler and 9 from Jayden Prather.  Micah Estelle also chipped in with some key baskets down-low and finished with 7 points.

However, coach Jake Jewett said, “The real story tonight was the defensive effort from Jayden Prather, who was challenged with guarding WMAA’s best shooter and holding him to only 3 points.  Prather showed great toughness and followed the defensive game plan to a T. 

“In close games like tonight, it comes down to who makes plays in crunch time, and we were able to make the necessary plays to win the game. Prather knocked down a big three in the 4th quarter, Micah Estelle had a one-and-one that really shifted momentum, and both Zander Hitzler and Tristen Perry made some clutch free-throws to seal the victory.  It was a big TEAM win!”

The Vikings improved to 3-1 on the season and play next at home next Tuesday against Allegan.