Photo courtesy of Troy L. Hugen Photography

Ramping up for the first edition of the Tulip City Showdown of 2026, the Pella Christian boys basketball team is looking forward to the challenge ahead of them against their cross-town rivals.

The Eagles improved to 6-2 overall on the season Tuesday night with a 12-point victory over Newton in their first game post-Christmas break. Pella, who enters Friday’s rivalry matchup ranked #5 in Class 3A, is 1-1 since returning to action after the holidays. The Dutch returned to the court with a dominant 81-54 victory over Knoxville on Monday, before falling to Oskaloosa 81-79 in overtime on Tuesday. Entering his first appearance on the sidelines of the Tulip City Showdown, Pella Christian head coach Joe Steinkamp knows his squad will face a big challenge against a ranked Pella team that will be looking to bounce back from the tough loss earlier this week.

“They can really score the ball, they’re great in transition, a really good defensive team, and they’re one of the best teams in the state. We’re gonna have to go back to work, get a couple great days of practice and great days of preparation in, and just keep trying to get better and keep being the fighting team that we’ve proven that we are so far this year. You know it’s going to be an emotional game for all the boys involved. I think these kids in this community are just really blessed to be able to play in these types of games in front of so many supportive parents and families. So, we’re excited for the challenge, and we’re ready to get back to work.”

The Tulip City Showdown basketball doubleheader at Pella High School Friday night can be heard live on 92.1 KRLS and viewed live on the Pella Dutch Live YouTube channel, beginning with pregame coverage at 5:45 pm.