H1 Thunder 33, Kona Stingrays 30 (14U)

NJB Hawaiian Hoops Classic, 14U Division, Palama Settlement gym
I expected a battle and we got one from a well-coached, defensive-oriented team. Every loose ball, both teams hit the floor and went after it. 

We came out a little too undisciplined on halfcourt defense and the Stingrays patiently got us napping backdoor. Eventually, though, we locked down just enough to get a few stops. And we hit free throws in the final minutes after falling behind by about 6-8 points. Kapaa hit a couple of big 3-pointers after the Stingrays switched to zone to help spark the rally. 

Tani drove the baseline for the go-ahead layup with less than 1 minute left. Stingrays still got a wide-open 3-point shot off before the buzzer, but we lucked out on the miss. 

I won't be surprised to see the Stingrays in the final. They're deep and tall and long and athletic. And smart. Hopefully, we'll be there to meet them again.

Lineup: Colin Micah Ramos (ankle), Jared Elwin, Javan Montiho, Josh Roberts, Kali'a Mielke, Josh M DE Jesus, Felcris Jay Corpuz Ahadain,Chris Afe, Tanielu Mosi Afe, Kapaa Nishimura, Ryan Higashionna, Chase Santos, Kyle Moraga.

Great Heart tonight, Thunder. We trailed almost the whole way and never gave up. Good win over an outstanding opponent.

Next: Thursday, 10:00 am - Optional hill run, Carlos Long St.
Thursday, 5:00 pm - Practice, Makiki Park.
Friday, 5:30 pm - H1 Thunder vs. HomeGrown (CAL 13U), Kilauea gym. (I'm going to scout the Team Lihue/Stingrays game that night, 8:00 pm).
Saturday, 9:00 am - H1 Thunder vs. Team Lihue (NJB Classic 14U), Palolo gym. Quarterfinals, semifinals in the mid-day and afternoon.
Sunday, time TBA - NJB Classic championship game, Manoa gym.
WE LUB THIS GAME!