Hudson Kirby leads undefeated Geneva to rivalry rout of Batavia

Vikings dominate Bulldogs, improve to 9-0

Undefeated Geneva has barely been challenged this season. The Vikings’ closest game this season was a seven-point win against St. Francis.

On paper, a trip to rival Batavia, which features Jax Abalos, one of the few Division I players in the area, seemed like a possible challenge.

It was over quickly. No. 23 Geneva limited the Bulldogs to three baskets in the first half and cruised to a 62-37 win on Friday.

Hudson Kirby shines

Hudson Kirby, a 6-6 senior committed to Wisconsin-Parkside, led Geneva with 18 points and 12 rebounds. Kirby’s teammates are supremely confident feeding him in the post. They found him at odd angles and often with an extra, unexpected pass.

“We know Hudson is our guy,” Vikings guard Gabe Jensen said. “He’s one of the best players in the state. Everyone knows where he is at all times. We have this connection where he knows I’m always looking for him on the court. If I throw it up to him he’s going to get it.”

Geneva’s dominance

Geneva (9-0, 4-0 DuKane) led 29-7 at halftime.

Coaches can usually find something to complain about. But even Vikings coach Scott Hennig could only list positives after his team’s domination.

“Anytime you come here it is a tough environment,” Hennig said. “Our kids did a nice job of following the game plan. We got the ball inside, we got to the rim. We did a good job attacking the basket and getting to the free-throw line. It was a great game. We rebounded really well. It was just a collective effort.”

Batavia struggles

Jax Abalos, a 6-8 Cornell recruit, led Batavia (5-4, 2-2) with 12 points and four rebounds. The Bulldogs shot 15 of 44.

“We’ve played against [Abalos] our whole life,” Kirby said. “We knew our focus had to be on him and if we could stop him we’d be good.”

Looking ahead

Kirby paid special attention to last year’s state playoffs and Palatine’s run to Champaign and the state semifinals inspired him.

“Our goals are to win the sectional and beyond,” Kirby said. “We are looking to sweep the DuKane and anything can happen if we win the sectional. We are looking to create this year’s Palatine.”

Geneva played as a cohesive unit. The Vikings defend well, rebound and make the extra pass. But they haven’t faced a major test yet. That could come at Jacobs’ Hinkle Holiday Classic, which starts on Saturday.

“I thought at this point we’d have one loss at most,” Kirby said. “Our first real challenge will be against Crystal Lake South or Waubonsie Valley [at Jacobs]. We will be ready.”

Conclusion

Geneva’s undefeated start to the season is a testament to their hard work and dedication. With a strong team effort and a focus on stopping opponents’ top players, the Vikings are well-positioned to make a deep run in the state playoffs.

FAQs

Q: What is Geneva’s record this season?

A: The Vikings are 9-0.

Q: Who led Geneva in scoring against Batavia?

A: Hudson Kirby scored 18 points.

Q: What is Geneva’s goal for the rest of the season?

A: The Vikings aim to win the sectional and beyond.

Q: What is the Vikings’ next challenge?

A: Geneva will face Crystal Lake South or Waubonsie Valley at Jacobs’ Hinkle Holiday Classic.