While they didn’t finish with the top prize in Class 3A, the Pella boys basketball team had several special moments to remember in the 2019-20.

Head Coach Derek Schulte says the team takes pride in being just one of three teams to knock off eventual state champions Norwalk, and one of two to do so at the home of the Warriors — an honor shared by crosstown rivals Pella Christian.

“Heading into that week we were 2-2, and on the verge of playing the top team in the state,” he says. “We were able to get a huge win that I think launched our momentum at their place.”

Schulte also says the way the community rallied around the Dutch in their substate matchup, and the subsequent comeback run to win against archrival Oskaloosa, also will stand out for many years in program history, which led the green and white to the program’s 17th ever state tournament appearance.

“I think we were all concerned if Knoxville was the right location for that spot, and all it did was provide an atmosphere that was electric,” he says. “When we walked in an hour ahead of time to a standing ovation in a full gym, and it was a great atmosphere from start to finish.”

“To be able to celebrate there and what this team earned together–which was a trip to the state tournament, is a memory I hope our guys are able to enjoy for a long time.”

Pella finished the 2020 season in the state quarterfinals, with a 19-6 overall record. Hear a season recap of the Pella and Pella Christian boys basketball seasons on Saturday’s Knoxville Hy-Vee Radio Coaches Corner, with a new start time at 9 a.m. on 92.1 KRLS.