Big Rapids Cardinal Basketball triumphed to an opening season win over the Shepherd Blue Jays Tuesday night by a final score of 48-34. The Cardinals' victory was powered by a stellar performance from senior Gabe Njenga, who led all scorers with an estimated 20 points and pulled down nearly 10 rebounds. Njenga's performance was pivotal, especially on the defensive side with multiple steals and approximately five blocked shots.

The Cardinals' defense was equally as impressive, highlighted by Ty Gielczyk's defensive play inside the paint. Gielczyk not only added seven points to the scoreboard but also grabbed nine rebounds and had three steals. Cole Haist also hit two of three shots from downtown, finishing with eight points and four rebounds. 

Free-throw shooting was not at its best for Big Rapids, as they managed only nine out of 17 conversions from the line. To counter, their overall defensive strategy and rebounding kept them in control throughout the game. Big Rapids’ changing defense scheme significantly disrupted the Blue Jays' offensive rhythm, turning them over nearly 20 times in the game.

Shepherd was led by Mason Eisenberger, who managed about seven points. TJ Powell, a key player for the Blue Jays offense, struggled on two of 13 shooting and a total of seven points. 

This win for Big Rapids showcases their readiness for the season, as the Cardinals avenge a 64-56 loss to Blue Jays to open last year’s season. They will await Tuesday, Dec. 3 to return to the floor, as they will host West Michigan Aviation Academy in Big Rapids. Tip-off is slated for 7:00 P.M. with pre-game on NewsRadio WBRN beginning around 6:30 P.M.

*ALL STATS ARE ESTIMATED AT THE TIME OF THE ARTICLE’S POSTING. OFFICIAL STATS WILL BE UPDATED ONCE THEY ARE FINALIZED.