Winter Sports Stars Shine Bright in Southwest Michigan

In the heart of winter, athletes from Southwest Michigan are making their mark. Basketball courts, wrestling mats, and hockey rinks are witnessing some incredible performances. From seniors achieving career milestones to underclassmen stepping up, the season is off to a thrilling start. Take Owen Gorham, for instance. This Mendon senior isn't just playing basketball; he's making history. With a whopping 24 points and 16 rebounds in one game, he crossed the 1, 000-point mark for his career. And he's not alone. Ben Johnson from Portage Central joined an elite club, becoming only the second player in his school's history to score 1, 000 points.But it's not just about the boys. Girls are making waves too. Alexis Walther from Schoolcraft is a force to be reckoned with. She scored 19 points, grabbed six steals, and dished out three assists in a single game. And let's not forget Lucy Young, a sophomore from Kalamazoo Hackett, who led her team to victory with 22 points and nine rebounds. It's not just basketball that's heating up. Wrestling and hockey are seeing their share of standout performances. Louis Smith from Three Rivers is a wrestling sensation, leading his team to a perfect record. Meanwhile, Brady Penny from Kalamazoo United scored a hat trick in hockey, leading his team to a shutout win. These athletes are not just playing; they're dominating. They're setting records, leading their teams to victory, and making their mark on the season. And the best part? The season is just getting started. With more games on the horizon, there's no telling what these athletes will accomplish next.