Junior Basketball Finish Fourth

The team entered the Lower Mainland Championship tournament ranked fourth. Starting off against sixth ranked Churchill, they took control, winning by 17 points, and giving themselves the chance to take on first-ranked Argyle. Up against the class of the tournament, it was tense game. LFA hit a "3' to start off the game in a tight first quarter. As time progressed, injuries and foul trouble started to take its toll. Argyle took over, using their height and strength advantage, winning by 17.

The loss to Argyle pitted LFA against STM with "everything" on the line in the bronze medal game: the winner would take the third and final berth at the Provincials. The two rivals found themselves in a familiar battle: it was ever so close. At half, LFA held a small lead. In the third quarter, foul trouble and a tiring Angels side allowed STM to take the lead.

In the fourth, the Angels dug deep and fought back with strong defensive stops and timely shots. With but 5 seconds left onthe clock and STM holding onto a 1 point lead an LFA player attempted her shot for the lead. Seemingly fouled, LFA anticipated free throws to tie--maybe take the lead--but oddly none were given. The foul was given but as an in-bound throw. LFA couldn't manage the final basket, dropping the game by a single point. While devestated by the outcome, our Angels showed the type of sportsmanship that is our culture: to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.

 

Overall it was a great season. Our predominantly Grade 9 team regularly overcame height and strength advantages to the other team. Our two Grades 10 athletes capped off the junior basketball careers going undefeated in league play, winning the league title for the first time in 16 years and also added a tournament silver to their experience. For those who will return to Junior basketball next year, they'll be highly motivated to repeat as Junior League champions and get their shot at participating in next year’s provincials.

From the students and parents: thank you to the coaches. You encouragement of the girls to play beyond their comfort level helped them grow as players. Thank you to the supporters that came out each game. Thank you to the players for a season of truly entertaining basketball.