Records fall in Central College men’s basketball victory

Central College

PELLA — Records were meant to be broken.

The Central College men’s basketball team set six school marks in racing past Grinnell College 143-128 Wednesday night, including most points scored in a game (143), most points scored in a half (74), most assists (42), highest field goal percentage (68.4), most field goals made (52) and most points allowed (128).

“I give our guys a lot of credit,” said coach Craig Douma. “I thought our second-half adjustments were the difference in the game.”

Leading the way for the Dutch was senior forward Colby Taylor (Creston) with 35 points and added 10 rebounds. Senior forward Ryan Kunkel (Solon) set a new career high with 31 points, as well as 14 rebounds and five blocks.

“In the second half Ryan had a great showing,” said Douma. “I thought Colby did a great job of stabilizing us in the first half as well.”

Guard Kyle Smith (Grand River, New Hampton HS) notched his first career statistical double-double with 11 points and 12 assists, the latter stat just one shy of the school standard. Guards Tate Handsaker (senior, Nevada) and Andre Johnson (sophomore, Houston, Texas, Alief Hastings HS) added 14 points apiece.

“Tonight was another great team effort,” said Douma.

Central returns to action Wednesday heading to Cedar Rapids to take on the 2-1 Coe College Kohawks. The matchup is the first Iowa Conference game for both teams. They spilt two games last season with Central winning the last matchup 84-63.

The Kohawks attack doesn’t resemble Grinnell’s frantic playing style.

“The game is going to be more of a low-possession game,” said Douma. “They put out a great defensive lineup. We have to get back to ourselves and how we want to play over the Thanksgiving break.”

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