Pioneers Historical Run Continues as they Beat Mott to advance to the District Final Four

University Center, MI--------The Delta Pioneers Men's team has had an historical run but one more accomplishment does not hurt as the team beat Mott 59-56 for the 3^rd consecutive time this season. 

In the opening moments of the game both teams had great defensive stops on the others initials plays but Mott was able to capitalize on Delta lack of rebounding to get easy put backs early in the game. 

Julian Henderson (Saginaw/Saginaw, MI) who was battling an injury was able to step up with strong rebounds and clutch shots throughout the game.  Henderson has had the ability to fight and persevere through injuries and foul trouble all season to come up big, which also included guarding bigger opponents in order to get the job done. 

The Pioneers in the first half went through some up and downs on the offensive end but had the ability to establish it largest lead of the game and season against Mott by 12.  Mott fought back every second and finished the half as the clock expired with two free throws to close the Pioneer lead to 7 with a score of 38-31.

Markell Bradshaw (Saginaw/Saginaw, MI) was consistent in the first half with some big three pointers and drives that lead to easy baskets for the Pioneers in the first half which they will needed to take control of the game. 

The second half was filled with the defensive struggle which saw the Pioneers score 21 points in the half, while Mott scored 25 points in total.  The defensive prowess of the teams turned up a notch with the thought that every basket could end each other's season.  The game ended with some clutch free throws from Julian Henderson and Markell Bradshaw to secure the game; despite a half court shot from Mott that barely missed its mark.  The pioneers survive and advance with a score of 59-56. 

"The amount of pride I have in our team's ability to pull out this hard fought victory was well needed but was not accomplished tonight but during our tough games from the regular season.  To beat a team and program such as Mott is huge for our program but more importantly for the players from the area that know Mott's dominance." Coach Kyle Blackbourn

The Pioneers will look to take the court on Friday March 6^th, as the #3 Pioneers look to take on #2 Oakland Community College at Pioneer gym at 1:00pm.