The Dux ran into a tough opponent on Thursday, December 13, as they lost to the Mona Shores JV by a score of 66-40. Despite the score, Coach Ray had many positive takeaways from the game. "In the first half, I thought we were getting the right shots and getting teammates involved," Ray said. "There was just a lid on the basket that kept those shots that we have been hitting the past few games from falling." Going into the half down 41-20, the Dux did not quit. They came out with a renewed focus on both the offensive and defensive ends. "I was pleased with our effort in the second half. After losing the first half by 21, we lost the second half by only five points, with the 4th quarter being a 7-7 wash. I think that second half is more indicative of the kind of team that we are," Coach Ray said. Overall, nine Dux entered the box score, led by Brenden "Benny" Williams with 10 points, including 4/4 free throws down the stretch, Terick DeJonge with 8 points, and Peyton Arendsen with 3 points, coming off an "And-1" that infused some life into the team at a crucial point in the first half. "Peyton brings incredible energy and effort to practice everyday, so it is not a surprise that he did that in today's game as well. He is a model for others in terms of what it means to play hard every single possession," Coach Ray said. Nick Powers (5 points), Avery Alderink (5 points), Cam Schuessler (3 points), Jake Kender (2 points), Joe Steele (2 points), and Carter DeJonge (2 points). You can catch the Dux in action next Friday night, December, 21, as they face off against Comstock Park in the friendly confines of the Zeeland West gym. "We are excited to half the opportunity to finish this first portion of the season at home in front of our fans," Coach Ray said.