LLJBC U10,U12 play in Notts Easter Tournament
Author: Paul wyatt
19 April 2025
LLJBC took an U12 and U10 team to the Nottingham Wildcats Basketball Easter Tournament on Easter Saturday.
Unfortunately each team only had 6 players but that meant more court time for those that came along, which meant a lot of hard work and running.
Both teams represented the club exceptionally well against some very established Nottingham, Sheffield and Leicester teams in what was a slightly chaotic, fast paced event.
The U12 struggled for height but had 3 players with experience from the Notts CVL who were used to the pressure they would get from these type of matches. Unfortunately the strength and experience of the opposition meant they only took one win from their first 4 games and went into the 5/6 place playoffs. It was a very close game with LLJBC taking an early lead, but they were down to just 5 players for this match and the tired legs struggled to push through. The lead moved back and forth, but they ended losing by only 3 points. It was a terrific effort from the whole team, each player facing and overcoming their own significant challenges on the court.
Many of the U10 were playing their first game of basketball away from the Club and took a while to find their feet, learning as they progressed through the tournament. Their teamwork improved as the event progressed, and they learnt to play to their strengths, pushing the ball up the court, putting good passes into the paint, and demonstrating their shooting ability, reaching the playoff final. The final was a close affair, with no team managing to pull away and scores tied, or one score apart for much of the second half. Our U10s also ended up losing by 3 points, but it was a fantastic achievement - gaining second place in the event - with a very brave performance from all players.
A special mention to Ted who was awarded an ‘Impact Player’ award, voted for by the officials for his efforts and impact throughout.