Brother Rice Pulls Away Late to Defeat River Rouge, 64–48

DETROIT, MI — December 13,2025

By: Caleb Bushell | DVS Reporter

Brother Rice weathered an uneven first half before flipping the script with defensive pressure and disciplined execution, pulling away for a 64–48 victory over River Rouge on Day 1 of the Chris Webber Best of Michigan Tournament.

First Half — Rice Stays Composed

Brother Rice found itself playing from behind early, as River Rouge controlled the tempo and appeared to be the more comfortable team throughout much of the first half. At times, the Warriors struggled to find rhythm offensively, but they stayed composed and never allowed the deficit to grow.

A key momentum shift came from Stefan Banica (#32), whose emphatic block energized the bench and helped steady the Warriors. Despite River Rouge dictating stretches of play, Brother Rice kept the game within reach and went into halftime trailing just 30–26.

Third Quarter — Defensive Pressure Changes the Game

Coming out of the break, Brother Rice raised its intensity on both ends of the floor. Defensive pressure began to force turnovers, and the Warriors capitalized by turning stops into offense.

Rice attacked the rim, found scoring opportunities in transition, and steadily applied pressure to River Rouge’s defense. By the end of the third quarter, Brother Rice had seized control, taking a 40–35 lead as River Rouge struggled to regain offensive flow.

Fourth Quarter — Warriors Take Over

Brother Rice completely took over in the final frame. Entering the bonus early, the Warriors controlled the pace and locked in defensively, allowing River Rouge just eight points over the final quarter-plus stretch.

With 4:19 remaining, Brother Rice held a commanding 54–39 lead, effectively sealing the game. From there, the Warriors stayed disciplined, knocked down free throws, and closed out the contest to secure the 64–48 win.

Key Performers

• Jordan McDaniels (#1): Led all scorers with 19 points, providing steady offense throughout.

• Trevor Smith (#22): Added 10 points and physical play in the paint.

• Stefan Banica (#32): Delivered a momentum-shifting block and anchored the interior defensively.

Team Takeaway

Brother Rice’s composure and defensive intensity proved to be the difference. After a challenging first half, the Warriors flipped the game with pressure defense, controlled the paint, and executed down the stretch to earn a strong 64–48 victory.