Big Rapids, MI — In a thrilling Central State Activities Association (Gold Division) showdown, the Grant Tigers escaped with a narrow 79–77 win after multiple overtime on the road against the Big Rapids Cardinals at their home court .

A Game Defined by Drama & Endurance

Both teams entered the contest battling for the conference crown—Grant unbeaten in league play, while Big Rapids carried just one league loss, setting the stage for a winner-takes-all atmosphere.

Grant asserted control early, with Sincere Hatch exploding for 11 first-quarter points, followed by Phillips’ 11 in the second quarter, giving the Tigers solid momentum at halftime.

But Big Rapids refused to fold. Their resilience—and standout contributions from Gabe Njenga (21 pts), Cole Haist (also 21), and Ty Gielczyk (16)—pushed the game into a fiercely contested overtime stretch. Their season-long form earned all three players All‑CSAA Honors, reflecting their dominant presence on both ends of the floor.

Grant, however, forged ahead in the extra minutes and prevailed 79–77, seizing the conference title outright.

Coach’s Thoughts & Turning Points

Big Rapids coach Kent Ingles lamented missed execution during the final moments, noting that Grant’s late scoring run was decisive. JR Moten, Big Rapids’ defensive standout, played with his customary energy, but even his efforts couldn’t tip the final outcome in favor of the Cardinals.

For Grant coach Dan George, the triumph validated his team’s composure and playmaking under pressure. He praised the leadership of Hatch and Phillips, whose scoring bursts in the first half set an early tone—and ultimately helped carry the Tigers to victory over a well-drilled adversary.

Season Reflections & What’s Next

Big Rapids concluded the season with a 16–7 overall record and 8–2 in conference, narrowly missing out on the CSAA title by two points in triple-overtime to Grant earlier in the season  . Their campaign ended shortly thereafter in the district semifinals with a heartbreaking 56–55 loss to Hart.

Grant, finishing at 20–2 overall, secured the outright conference championship with the victory over Big Rapids  . Their postseason run continued further but eventually concluded two points short in a district elimination game.