3rd grade boys basketball preview

For the first time in three years, St. Mary's will have a 3rd grade boys basketball team.

Some of the more familiar names, Calvin, Ethan, the twins Damon and Darren are on the team.

As expected there is a learning curve and head coach Randy Stonebarger, Kaela's father, is more focused on getting the basics down, and the winning can come later.

"My expectations this year for the 3rd grade basketball team is for them to learn the fundamentals of basketball and enjoy playing the game," Randy said.

With that being said, nobody would mind if they could learn sooner rather than later.

"I also want them to be competitive and hopefully that could lead the team to the playoffs," he added.

They did not record a win in the tournament, but those three games were great experience for the upcoming season.

Where most teams are playing for the first time this weekend, Friday night's game will be game number four for most of the boys.

Brendan, brother of Justin in 5th grade, has already emerged as a shooter, leading the team in scoring in all three games of the tournament.

"Brendan shows a lot of aggressiveness in the court and is not afraid to shoot," Randy said.

With a lot of 3rd grade teams, the kids simply aren't strong enough to get off good shots. Brendan doesn't have that problem.

As the season goes on, the St. Mary's Athletics universe will be introduced to more of the new names as they embark on the beginning of what hopes to be a long and successful playing career.

Justin Lee, class of 2011 graduate, is the 3rd grade's assistant coach.