Steady and rising

I'm almost surprised. A win by our 16U against a good Moanalua squad tonight (38-30), plus yesterday's 17U win over University, leaves me feeling less annoyed than I've been in many days. Maybe weeks. Maybe it's the reduction in mental errors and unforced mistakes. Maybe it's the fact that I didn't have to coach the past two days' games. Thank God for Coach Bo and Coach Larry.

It was Coach Larry in charge tonight, controlling the reins with great finesse and timing. It was masterful, to say the least, how he gauged Moanalua, which used a very patient zone offense to melt minutes off the clock until the final 7 or so minutes, when Larry switched us out of the zone to put the onus on Moanalua. Our man defense really took Moanalua out of its comfort zone. We went from being down 19-15 to being up within a couple of minutes, and finished strong.

Tonight was a little more interesting than usual with Keanu unavailable and the Kaimuki boys not there. We were nine strong and everybody contributed to the effort. It was an interesting performance as a whole for us. Isaiah didn't start; Coach Larry wanted to get more playing time for our younger guys (no CAL 15U game tonight). Haka played superb defense, but we didn't rely on his scoring tonight, especially in the second half when our defense took control of the game.

John played big, big, big. He and Kaelen controlled the boards much of the time, and John's energy and coverage on the top of the Power 10 was relentless. He had the energy of three wild animals locked in a cage. Isaiah and Haka were still key to the win, closing the game with their outstanding defense, mostly with steals and excellent on-ball pressure.

We also got steady play from Alleck and Chase. They've both improved their decision making over the past several months. The difference since last fall is amazing. Max is gradually shifting back into top shape. Once he gets his perimeter game rolling, we'll have another strong post defender who can stretch the other team's defense with his range. Sifo had a big layup for us late in the game off an offensive board. He was probably the youngest player in the game (13).

All in all, it was one of the more satisfying wins we've had in awhile. We played smart most of the night, and the hustle was definitely there. Still a busy week ahead, so stay focused, stay hungry and keep working, Thunder. 200 shots, 50 free throws every day. It's all yours if you want it.

NOTE: The highlight video for Thunder 16U vs. Maryknoll I (JV) is up. See the link at right under "Video: 2012 Maryknoll JV League". Or just click on the link right here.