Sharks 61, H1 Thunder 32 (13U)

NJB All-Net 13U, Kilauea gym
We played well for 5 minutes or so, when it was 15-all. Then the Sharks went on a big run with their talented big guys and our small team did little to resist. Today, in both our 13U games, was the first time we've been this small with this group. Kapaa is our workhorse on the boards, but he's a little bit too old to play in NJB All-Net with their weird birthdate cutoff rule (Sept. 1). And Chris is eligible, but he's still quite busy with Big Boys Football.

So ... we have to learn how to make do. That's why the first 5 minutes were very promising to me, especially after our sloppy play and crazy shot selection in the Kahuku game. But one bad decision begat another, which begat another, and before the half, we were down about 18 points.

Didn't get easier with Micah gone during the first half. He was at the earlier game, but didn't ride with us to Kilauea (from Koko Head). Next time, we all ride together and get there early.

Though the score was lopsided, I like the way we finished in the final 8 minutes or so. We finally began to show more crispness and patience offensively against the Sharks' 2-3 zone and man defenses. We're starting to understand what a MONEY shot is compared to a crazy shot. If we keep taking money shots — the kind that you practice every day — and completely avoid the crazy, off-balance, prayer shots in traffic against taller players — we're going to compete against any team regardless of size.

Until we have our bigs back, that's how we have to play — with BIG BRAINS. This will take time to develop. Hopefully, sooner rather than later. This was our first game in the NJB All-Net season. I'm hoping we build on this and get better every day, peak in the playoffs and make a run for the title. But first things first: WE NEED EVERYBODY AT PRACTICE, and when we don't have practice, everybody take 200+ shots a day. If you don't know when practice is, call/text me at 551-1054 and check your e-mails.

Lineup: Walter Berthold, Josh Roberts, Joshua de Jesus, Ryan Higashionna, Javan Montiho, Colin Ramos, Felcris Jay CorpuzAhadain, Micah Visoria.
Mark A. Berthold, Arlene Higashionna, Julie Montiho.