Monday, October 7, 2013

13U: Sharks 45, H1 Thunder 39

We led for about 3 quarters against a tall, quick team. Their press gave us layup opportunities, but at times we weren't patient and turned the ball over. That's something that comes with experience and mistakes. Hopefully, we keep learning. But we were shorthanded, especially on the boards. Jared Elwin would've helped a lot, but's out until the stitches over his right eye heal.Kyle Moraga and Kali'a Mielke were warriors under the basket, great job boxing out against the tall guys. Good battle. I'm not happy about a loss, but I'm stoked about the effort and heart. When the needle hits empty, you know the guys have done their best. Today's lineup: Joshua de Jesus, Hsien Pascua, Walter Berthold, Ryan Higashionna, Micah Visoria, Kyle and Kali‘a.

Josh hit big 3s for us today. His shot is back, officially. Hsien continues to learn on the job, excellent defense and a great attitude about learning. Micah also hit a couple of big 3s against a tall man-to-man defense. I wish we'd freed him up a few more times for open looks. (V-Ray anybody?) Walter gave us some good minutes off the bench and handled their three-quarter (2-2-1) press pretty good while he was in. Ryan had good moments but also will have to learn to use his fake more and be willing to be aggressive when he gets taller guys in the air. That will come with time. He's 11. 

Kyle and Kali‘a banged under the boards and boxed out very, very well. They just didn't have much help since we had a small lineup today. They played with heart and set the tone for our guys. We still have much to learn from, much to grow into, like playing with composure under pressure. That's why we keep playing. We learn more from the errors. That is the hope. 

That completes our 13U season in the Compete & Learn League. We went 5-3 with a very young lineup on most days. This team played without Tanielu and Chris most times (football/rest days), and Manoa was too old to be eligible. And no Kapaa. Javan was busy with football, leaving us with one less fullcourt defender/3-point shooter. But our guys, almost all guards, held down the fort quite well. We're only going to get better. 

Next: Monday, 5:00 pm, Practice, Makiki Park. 200+ a day. WE LUB THIS GAME!

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