While their dunks have energized gyms all season long, it’s the defense that has been the key towards pushing Pella Christian back to the state’s final eight in boys basketball.

Coming into the postseason, the Eagles were the 17th best defensive team in 2A against its sixth toughest schedule — and that average has improved since competing against Class 2A competition. The Eagles have allowed just 34 points per contest on the tournament trail against Central Decatur, Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont, and Des Moines Christian, who each won 20 games this winter.

Senior Jaedon Huisman knows that it’s been the work the Eagles have been doing on score prevention that has allowed them to play their best basketball as the state tournament approaches.

Pella Christian will have their hands full with Roland-Story Monday; the Norseman average 65 points per game, 12th best among 2A teams this winter. Coverage of Eagles state tournament basketball begins at 6:45 p.m. Monday on 92.1 KRLS.