Grand Rapids, Mich. – In every season there comes a moment where words must turn into action, and for the Aquinas Men's Basketball team, Saturday afternoon was exactly that moment. After a gut-wrenching setback earlier in the week, the Saints welcomed the WHAC's top team and a nationally ranked powerhouse into the Sturrus Center with something to prove. Facing No. 1 Indiana Tech and No. 13 in the NAIA, Aquinas didn't just respond — they rose together, delivering one of the most complete and inspired performances of the season.
Aquinas 85, Indiana Tech 79
From the opening tip, Aquinas played with pace, purpose, and confidence. Devon Boyd set the tone early, scoring from all three levels and igniting the crowd with timely triples, finishing with a game-high 26 points on a near-perfect shooting night. Caden Pokorzynski controlled the interior with authority, pulling down 10 rebounds to go along with 14 points while anchoring the Saints defensively. Cameron Moore continued his sharpshooting stretch, drilling four three-pointers and adding 12 points, while Jacob Howard provided a massive lift with 16 points and steady control when the Saints needed it most.
The Saints shot an efficient 50 percent from the floor in the first half and buried eight three-pointers, building a 44-35 halftime advantage. Tjay Jones and Jordan Bledsoe helped set the tone defensively and keep the Saints organized on both ends, while Kaleb Mitchelson brought energy, physicality, and key minutes that helped AQ maintain momentum through Indiana Tech's pressure. Nick Henry, David Day, and Caedmon Huff all contributed in the flow of the game, providing hustle plays, defensive possessions, and timely execution that kept the Saints connected.
Indiana Tech made its push in the second half, but Aquinas never flinched. Boyd continued to attack, Moore answered runs with a big shot-making presence, and Pokorzynski cleaned the glass and protected the rim. The Saints also showed elite composure at the line, finishing a perfect 14-for-14 on free throws to keep the edge when every possession tightened.
The final two minutes were a showcase of execution and toughness. With the game in the balance, Boyd calmly knocked down free throws and Moore delivered a huge late three to stretch the lead. Indiana Tech responded quickly, but Mitchelson stepped up at the stripe to keep AQ in control. Pokorzynski then punctuated the finish with a breakaway dunk in the closing seconds, and the Saints closed out the upset with a final defensive stand as the horn sounded and the AQ community celebrated like it was 1999.
Coach's Comments
After the game, Head Coach Ryan Bertoia reflected on the response his team showed:
"This was about brotherhood and belief. Our guys chose to play together, defend together, and trust one another against an elite team. I'm incredibly proud of how they answered the challenge — that's Aquinas basketball."
Inside the Numbers
• Aquinas shot 49.2% from the field and 44.8% from three
• The Saints went a perfect 14-for-14 at the free throw line
• Six different Saints scored at least five points
• Aquinas out rebounded Indiana Tech 36-30
• Largest lead for AQ: 16 points
• Kudos to Calvin Willson and Andrew Briskey for stepping in on play-by-play and delivering an outstanding broadcast
Up Next
After an emotional week, the Saints remain home on Wednesday to face Cleary in another crucial WHAC matchup. Tip-off is scheduled for approximately 7:30 PM, following the Women's game, and the contest will stream live on the AQSaints Athletic Network. Joey Sutherlin returns on the mic (unless the Saints community calls for Willson and Briskey). For complete coverage including stats, highlights, and recaps, visit AQSaints.com.
