Writes Johnny Oey, Teacher of Economics
The stage was set for our basketball season finale as we travelled to Mill Hill School on 30th January for our final game of the campaign. Knowing that a victory would keep our slim play-off hopes alive, the team were determined to secure their first-ever win against Mill Hill, having lost all three previous encounters.
The contest was closely fought throughout, with both teams displaying disciplined and physical defence. We managed to gain a slight advantage after the first two quarters, leading 22–19 at half-time. Scoring opportunities were hard to come by in what proved to be a low-scoring game, as both sides defended with great intensity. Entering the final 30 seconds, we held a narrow 37–36 lead. After several exchanges and time-outs, we showed composure under pressure to see out the game and record our first victory against our long-standing rivals.
Every player who took the court managed to get on the scoresheet. Once again, Ben P. (U6th) led the team with 10 points, while Andrew E. (U6th) added a valuable 8 points. Aaron P. (L6th) and Daniel O. (5th) were outstanding in their defensive contributions, applying tight marking and securing key rebounds at both ends of the court.
It was a tremendous win for the team, and regardless of whether we ultimately reached the play-offs, the U18 Basketball Team can look back on the season as a successful one, finishing the league campaign with four victories. It was also a fitting send-off for our U6th players, who enjoyed their strongest season to date. Thank you to Ben P., Andrew E., Mateo R-A., Zakariya K., Advaith K., Samuel W., Ben K. (all U6th), Aaron P. (L6th), Daniel O. (5th), Ammaar J., and Ravi J. (both Divs) for their commitment and continued support throughout the season.
