A classic bout featuring 21 ties or lead changes tilted the way of the Pella Christian boys basketball team in a 53-47 win over long-time rival Des Moines Christian, in a Class 2A District final heard live on 92.1 KRLS.

In a game in which neither team led by more than seven points, it was the Eagles largely staying ahead and coming up with answers anytime the Lions would find footing on offense. Despite losing the turnover margin 14-8, the Eagles outrebounded DMC 28-20 and made several critical threes from Jack Vermeer.

As time drew closer to the end of regulation, Pella Christian nailed the buckets and free throws they needed to hold off their state tournament caliber opponent.

Jungling says the energy of a packed Eagles crowd at Newton High School kept the energy rolling for the Eagles while they tried to play a slower tempo and halt the run-and-gun nature of Des Moines Christian.

Vermeer finished with 17 points on 4-of-6 three point shooting, Josh Van Gorp muscled out 14 points and nine rebounds despite being double covered most of the evening, and Jungling added 13 points. The Eagles improve to 12-10 overall and advance to the 2A Substate Final for the second season in a row, when they take on South Hamilton at Marshalltown High School. The Hawks controlled Hudson in the District 14 2A final by a 44-25 score. Hear Saturday’s Eagles substate game live on 92.1 KRLS and highlights from Tuesday’s win on tonight’s Radio Sports Page at 6 p.m.