GRAND RAPIDS — The National Youth Basketball Academy hosted an exciting 3rd-4th grade Dive and Drive game on Wednesday evening. The Ghosters came out with the win defeating the Eagles 71-63 in a game filled with impressive performances on both sides.
The first quarter was tightly contested, with both teams trading points and applying aggressive defense. Neither team could gain a clear advantage as the Ghosters and Eagles stayed neck and neck, playing with high energy and competing.
Momentum shifted in the second quarter when Abraham Gneym step up for the Ghosters. He stuffed the stat sheet with 12 of his 23 points during the period, highlighted by his dives for loose balls. Gneym’s energy sparked the Ghosters, while the Eagles battled through some minor injuries.
After halftime, the Eagles responded. Noah Sanders and Kylon Broyles combined for 14 points in the third quarter, rallying their team. However, the Ghosters balanced offense and intense defense ramped up. Bobby Springer Jr. was a difference-maker, adding 10 consecutive points to the game and finishing with a season-high of 26 total points.
In the final quarter, the Ghosters were able to maintain control, led by key contributions from Steve Ybarra and David Quinonez Jr. Ybarra, who finished with 14 total points, and Quinonez Jr., adding 8, both came through with clutch defensive plays to win the game and keep the Eagles from finishing a comeback.
Despite the loss on the scoreboard, the Eagles did well and their own standout performances. Noah Sanders led the way with 25 total points, while Levi Swift added 14, including a season-high six field goals. Kylon Broyles also chipped in 19 total points in a strong effort. NYBA’s leader in blocks, Teddy Salahdine finished with 5 total points.
The Ghosters were plus 32 on hustle plays.
