SPRING ARBOR, Mich. – The Spring Arbor University men's basketball team defeated Great Lakes Christian College 87-51 in the Trent Allen Memorial Challenge on Wednesday night.

The Trent Allen Memorial Challenge is an annual event hosted by the Spring Arbor basketball program and head coach Ryan Cottingham to honor the legacy of former Cougar Trent Allen, who passed away unexpectedly on June 30, 2010.

"It was a great night to honor Trent," said Cottingham. "To have Yolanda come into our locker room and speak to our guys was really special. She is an incredible individual and her three kids (Jaedyn, Jewell and Jace) are outstanding young adults. The Allen's are such an important part of the Cougar Family."

The evening held special meaning for not only the Cougars, but also for Great Lakes Christian head coach Brian Snyder. Snyder, in his first trip back to Spring Arbor after serving as an assistant coach here for 13 seasons, played alongside Allen and credits him for his decision to attend SAU.

"Meeting Trent Allen changed my life forever," said Snyder. "He is the person I credit for all my dreams and goals coming true with basketball, not only as a player but also as a coach. Trent was a great friend and the main reason why I'm doing what I'm doing today."

Three Cougars scored 15 points to lead the way, including sophomore Zach Medendorp went 7-for-8 from the field. Joining him were senior Greg Hamilton and sophomore Drew Zuidema. Junior Thomas Starks posted a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds while also registering four assists and two steals.

Spring Arbor (3-2) will visit Trinity Christian College (4-2) on Saturday, Nov. 21 in its final non-conference tilt before beginning Crossroads League play at Goshen College (7-0) on Tuesday, Nov. 24.

Men's Basketball Contact: Chris Bauman | 517-750-6504 | christopher.bauman@arbor.edu
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