Eagles Win Clash with Lions in District Basketball Final
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As we head to No. 7 on the countdown of top moments from Pella Christian High School in 2019-20, we head to the basketball court of an Eagles boys’ team that filled the season with memorable moments on their run to the 2020 state tournament.

In the district final at Newton High School, Pella Christian found themselves in a state tournament caliber matchup with a long-time rival as they were able to topple a long-time rival on their way to the round of 16 in Class 2A, defeating Des Moines Christian in a classic 53-47 game heard live on 92.1 KRLS on February 25th.

The bout featured 21 ties or lead changes, but eventually tilted the way of the Pella Christian boys basketball team. 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.

FULL HIGHLIGHTS:

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. More moments from the Pella Christian boys basketball season will be coming up on our countdown, as the Eagles finished the 2020 season with the school’s 15th appearance in the final eight over the past 30 years.