Five Players To Watch From The OK Green

<p>Last season, Unity Christian took the OK Green by storm and rode the momentum of a Conference Championship all the way to the Breslin Center and securing the Division 2 State Championship. The Crusaders graduated the main core of its championship team, leaving a window of opportunity open for the taking. Let's take a look at five athletes who will impact the OK Green Conference.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong>Ethan Alderink</strong></span></p> <p>6'6" Guard</p> <p>Holland Christian, 2020</p> <p>Ethan is a lengthy guard who has the athletic ability to finish above the rim and the physicality post up defenders in the paint. Ethan can shoot if effectively from deep, which also helps spread the floor for the Maroon offense, leading to open looks for his teammates.  After rounding out his junior year averaging 14.3 points, four rebounds, two assists and two blocks per game, Ethan will look to take his game to the next level.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><span style="color: #ff6600;">Eli Steffen</span></strong></p> <p>6'2" Guard</p> <p>Zeeland West, 2020</p> <p>Eli is a talented guard looking to take Zeeland West to new heights, following a junior campaign that ended in a solid 8-4 record in the conference. Eli's poise is what separates himself from other guards in the area. Eli never seems to be in a rush to get his shot, which often results in well-executed halfcourt sets for the Dux. Eli's recruitment came to a close this fall when he committed to Cornerstone in October.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong>Matt Richards</strong></span></p> <p><span style="color: #000000;">6'5" Forward</span></p> <p>Byron Center, 2020</p> <p>Matt is a big-bodied forward who uses his length effectively in the paint. Matt anticipates missed shots extremely well for a big and isn't afraid to sacrifice his body to get a loose ball. Matt has featured a nice up-and-under move around the basket, and he has also flashed the ability to find open teammates out of the post. Consistent outings from Richards should result in an improved record for the Bulldogs this season.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><span style="color: #ff6600;">Trip Riermersma</span></strong></p> <p><span style="color: #000000;">6'3" Guard</span></p> <p>Zeeland East, 2021</p> <p>As a sophomore, Trip proved he will be a focal point for Zeeland East with his offensive ability, high IQ and overall effort. Trip is a knock-down shooter from the perimeter, but also isn't afraid to attack the rim and draw contact. That part of his game translates to the defensive end as well as he's shown a knack for drawing charges. Expect Trip to lead Zeeland East as one of the must-watch juniors in the area.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><span style="color: #ff6600;">Zac Velthouse</span></strong></p> <p>6'3" Wing</p> <p>Unity Christian, 2021</p> <p>Zac is entering his junior season following a sophomore campaign that ended in a magical season and State Championship for the Crusaders. Now with a full season of varsity experience and a deep tournament run under his belt, Zac will be looked on to facilitate the offense and provide more scoring for Unity Christian. Standing at 6'3", Zac has the athleticism and length to guard big in the post and wings out on the perimeter. Zac's hustle and physicality should serve as a blueprint for the Crusaders playing style this season.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>