Springfield, Missouri, became the unlikely site of a national championship run for a small basketball team with roots in Montana’s Flathead Valley. The Flathead Valley Crusaders, a team comprised of homeschooled athletes, defied expectations at the National Christian Homeschool Basketball Championships (NCHBC) from March 16-20, bringing home the D3 National Title. Their victory, secured after five consecutive wins against teams from across the Midwest, marks a high point for the program and highlights the growing competitiveness of homeschool athletics.
The Crusaders’ journey to the championship wasn’t without its challenges. The team had navigated injuries and a competitive regular season in the Montana Christian Athletic Association (MCAA), ultimately earning a state title that propelled them to the national stage. At the NCHBC, a massive tournament featuring over 400 teams, the Crusaders faced a gauntlet of opponents, proving their resilience and skill with each victory. The NCHBC itself has a notable history, having hosted future NBA star Blake Griffin during his high school career, demonstrating the level of talent often present at the event.
A Tournament of Divisions and Upsets
The NCHBC operates on a tiered system, dividing teams into divisions based on skill level. According to coach Mark Kenney, the tournament’s initial seeding process is somewhat fluid. “Basically teams are made to fit in one of two super divisions and the first round game decides who stays and who drops a level,” Kenney explained. This dynamic meant the Crusaders had to earn their way through the bracket, facing increasingly challenging competition with each win. Their path included a 54-49 victory over the Hawks of Columbus, Ohio, who subsequently competed in the D4 championship game, though ultimately fell short.
The Crusaders continued their winning streak with decisive victories: 44-42 against Marian, Ohio; 64-57 over the Shoreline Breakers from Grand Rapids, Michigan; and a commanding 71-58 win against the LKY Saints of Louisville, Kentucky. These wins set the stage for a final showdown against the St. Louis Blue Knights, which the Crusaders won 56-45, securing the D3 National Title.
Key Players and Team Contributions
The Crusaders’ success was a team effort, but several players stood out during the tournament. Jon Dannic, a guard who previously played at Glacier High School, led the team in scoring with an average of 17.4 points per game, shooting an impressive 44 percent from the three-point line (14 of 32 attempts). Patrick Bonner, despite often being undersized in the post at 6-foot-1, averaged 13.2 points and 12.5 rebounds per game, demonstrating his tenacity and skill. Zeph Stutzman too contributed significantly, averaging 12.4 points per outing.
Beyond the leading scorers, the Crusaders benefited from strong contributions from Grant Kenney, the coach’s son, who averaged 7.8 points and dished out 21 assists against only eight turnovers throughout the five games. Nathan Turner, Landon Keihn, Zach Bellinski, and Keaton Williams all played crucial roles in the team’s 34-6 overall record. The team’s depth proved to be a key factor in their ability to withstand the grueling five-games-in-five-days schedule.
Looking Ahead: A Potential Move to the Top Division
While the Crusaders faced tough competition in Missouri, their season also included losses to local Montana teams Stillwater Christian (twice) and Seeley-Swan. However, Kenney believes the level of play at the NCHBC was exceptionally high, with many participants going on to play Division I college basketball. He sees potential for players like Bonner, a junior, to continue their basketball careers at the collegiate level, noting his “extremely athletic” build and potential.
Dannic, the team’s only graduating senior, also impressed Kenney with his performance, particularly his six three-pointers in the championship game. With a largely returning roster, the Crusaders are optimistic about their future. Kenney anticipates a move to the highest division of the NCHBC next year, expressing confidence in their ability to compete at that level. “I feel confident we could move up and do well there,” he said.
The Flathead Valley Crusaders’ national championship is a testament to the dedication and talent within the homeschool athletic community. Their success story offers a compelling example of what can be achieved through hard work, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence. The National Christian Homeschool Basketball Championships website provides further information about the tournament and its divisions: https://www.nchbc.org/
The Crusaders’ next steps involve offseason training and preparation for the upcoming season. Kenney plans to continue building the program’s strength and skill, aiming to maintain their competitive edge and potentially challenge for another national title. The team’s success is sure to inspire other homeschool athletes in Montana and beyond.
What do you consider about the rise of homeschool athletics? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and please share this story with others who might be interested in the Crusaders’ incredible journey.
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