February 8, 2022 – West Bend, WI – The match between these two North Shore Conference foes, West Bend East and Grafton, could best be described as “scrappy.”
While shooting was not tremendous by either team, both played with grit and fire, especially in the rebounding department, that made the game compelling.
The Black Hawks took the initial advantage off a pair of three-pointers and although their leads were never insurmountable for the Suns, Grafton controlled the scoreboard throughout the first half.
The Black Hawks entered halftime up 27-25. In the second half the Suns were able to capitalize on even more fouls by the Black Hawks, a problem that plagued Grafton all game, with all but one starting player fewer than three fouls.
The momentum generated at the free-throw line, combined with successful consecutive offensive possessions, allowed the Suns to get their first lead in the game with 7:20 left to play in the second half. 
Despite Grafton’s aggressiveness, West Bend East’s resolve helped them maintain their newly acquired lead until the final buzzer, winning 63-52.
West Bend East juniors Severin Hilt and Calvin Buss both put up amazing performances in the win, scoring 22 and 18 respectively. Grafton’s leading scorer was sophomore Michael McNabb Jr. who had 20 points.
The win brings West Bend East’s record to 9-12 (7-8) as they get ready for their next game on the road against fellow North Shore Conference foe Cedarburg (7-12, 6-8) on Friday February 11 at 7:15 p.m. Grafton meanwhile drops to 8-12 (6-9) this season and will travel to face Slinger (8-11, 6-8) on Friday February 11 at 7:15 p.m.
