Posen gets good grades for effort

Sixth-ranked Hillman (21-1) won its third consecutive district championship and fourth in seven years with a 63-29 over Posen (6-16) in Friday’s Class D District final at Onaway.

It was the third meeting of the season between the two schools and the Vikings showed marked improvement in each time.

Posen coach Matt Ponik talks strategy during a timeout in the district finals. (Photo by Peter Jakey)

Posen head coach Matt Ponik thought his squad played with great intensity in the contest, especially in the first half. After Hillman went on a 14-0 lead through the first six minutes, the Vikes outplayed them for the next quarter-plus.

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Junior Evan Schuch’s 3-pointer on an inbound pass with four seconds remaining in the first half cut the Hillman lead to 11, 28-17.

Hillman’s Gunnar Libby got hot from downtown and fired in five, 3-pointers to help the Tigers put the game away and claim the trophy.

Hillman advanced to the regional tournament at Pellston and are ready  to get a third straight meeting against Cedarville. Hillman has never won a regional basketball championship.