It’s hard to ask for a better start than what the Pella boys basketball team has achieved since December. Now ranked No. 1 in Class 3A and undefeated through eight games, the Dutch are firmly in control of the Little Hawkeye Conference leaderboard, and with each passing game, show they are one of the favorites to be playing at Wells Fargo Arena in March.
It’s rare that a team of Pella’s caliber could find a significant upgrade this late into the winter, however, there aren’t many programs adding an honorable mention All-Little Hawkeye Conference player to their rotation.
Junior Noah Allen will be eligible to suit up the next time Pella hits the floor — right now, scheduled to be Friday night at Eagle Lane against Pella Christian.
Head Coach Derek Schulte says Allen should have an immediate impact, but also understands there will be some challenge adding him to an already successful formula. However, Schulte says Allen has been working with the Pella team in practice and in camps since last summer, and while there might be an adjustment period, he’s excited to see what the junior can add as the top option off the bench in the immediate term and the depth he adds over the course of a potential state tournament run.
“He’s somebody who has been fortunate enough to be practicing with us, so it’s not like we are adding someone just brand new to our program,” Schulte says.
“Anytime to add somebody, whether it’s injury, transfer, or whatever it might be, it brings unique challenges to the table, but I’m confident in this group. Noah is an unselfish player and a kid that loves basketball, and we’re excited that he’s going to be a big part of our team moving forward.”
Allen was a starter for Newton in 2019-20, averaging 12.9 points per game in 21 starts for the Cardinals, shooting 36.1% from three point range. He was sitting out 90 days due to IHSAA transfer rules.
Pella will get to see Noah in action during a varsity game this Friday against Pella Christian. Hear the Dutch and Eagles clash in a girls-boys doubleheader at 5:45 p.m. on 92.1 KRLS.