Kalamazoo Christian lifted its overall season record to 16-3 Tuesday night by stopping the visiting Martin girls 43-31.

However, Clippers’ coach Ben Schipper didn’t do a lot of complaining about a loss to a quality ballclub.

“Our girls put forth a tremendous effort tonight,” he said. “We battled K Christian all night long and had them on the ropes in the third quarter being up 23-22. They put together a run to close the third and then expanded their lead in the 4th.

“Our defense was awesome tonight. Our game plan was to deny Bonnema and make the other girls play us 4 on 4.”

He singled out the rotation of Liz Reinke, Lynsey Jager and Hailey Snyder for holding K Christian star Bonnema holding to one field goal.

“We held her scoreless in the second half and she finished with 4 points. I give a ton of credit to K Christian’s other players. They rose to the occasion and made timely shots. Herder and Ybema particularly hurt us with 12 apiece.

“We struggled around the basket tonight and really couldn’t buy a bucket all night long. I hope this game serves as a big confidence boost to our girls to know we can play with anyone.”

Makala Goddard worked very hard to score 17 points for Martin.

“KC did a good job of limiting her shots and Makala was still able to lead our offensive effort,” Schipper said. “I was also very pleased with Avery Jager’s aggressiveness on the offensive end as well as rebounding. She’s really been playing strong the last few games. 

“Also, I’d like to give credit to Coach Kelly Allen for always having her girls ready to battle and execute. She does a great job.”

The verdict dropped the Lady Clippers’ overall season record to 14-4.

The Martin boys Tuesday night lost 46-34 to St. Joseph Michigan Lutheran and now is 2-14 overall.