Your job, is to find out what penultimate means...So you will probably just google it.
PLAYOFF PICTURE
7th grade - Needs win Friday to clinch #2 seed, a loss drops them to #3
7th grade DMA - Needs win Friday to clinch #3 seed, a loss drops them to #4 most likely
6th grade - Clinched the #1 seed, will play #4 in playoffs
5th/6th grade - Needs to win Friday to clinch at least a #3 seed, could jump up to as high as #2...A loss would drop them to most likely the #4 seed
ELIMINATED FROM PLAYOFF CONTENTION
4th grade
8th grade
.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Sunday, January 27, 2013
An unfortunate end to the 8th grade's basketball careers
Another game slipped through their finger tips, or in a more fitting way of putting it, broke through their press.
With less than 20 seconds left in the game, Brandon Khuu sat on the bench, with his head tilted back, and head spinning like there was no tomorrow.
In 8th grade basketball terms, there was no tomorrow as the class of 2013 lost their final basketball game in a St. Mary's uniform by a final score of 33-26 to complete a disappointing farewell season.
While it would be easy to focus on the negatives that surrounded the team all year long, Brandon physically being at the final game was symbolic of what the team could've and should've been.
Over the winter break, Brandon suffered an ankle injury and was all but ruled out for the rest of the basketball season.
Yet he showed up to the next game on crutches, and physically stood on the court to start the only game the 8th grade won. Then, not even at full strength, he took one for the team and played in the final two games, leaving it all out on the court.
Not wanting to disappoint his teammates or the school, he emptied his tank and left a lasting impression on his basketball career.
If only the team had more of that motivation and desire to play and get better, the 8th grade would not be sitting where it is right now.
Their final basketball game was a microcosm of how their entire season was, losing to a team they should've beaten.
But after repeating the same hackneyed phrase over and over, should they have beaten this team Saturday?
Did a team who was constantly beaten on the press from start to finish deserve to win this game?
Does a team that featured mistakes that have been talked about since 5th grade deserve a better fate?
Injuries and their lack of depth did not do this team any favors. In their division, the level of play is non-stop every second of the game. With only five players for pretty much the entire season, they wore down as the game progressed.
Even the best conditioned professional athletes have trouble going the entire way without a break, so you can imagine how it is when you're 13 or 14.
Without Aaron, James and Christian, who were all on the team last year, only five of the original core remained.
Moises, who was added to the team this season, provided some much needed athleticism, but having only a year of experience on a team that didn't win a game, proved a little too much for even Moises to overcome.
As for the game, Justin did not have his best day from the field, as one of the best shooters the school has to offer, wasn't able to connect from the perimeter.
Brandon Tom, who has made it a habit of hitting threes this season shot blanks from beyond the arc.
So with two of their top scorers struggling, the defense needed to step up and unfortunately they didn't.
The other team broke the press at will and scored almost all of their points around the basket.
Applying the full court press is almost a necessity for this team because if they sit back in a zone, they tend to get lazy and won't be as alert.
On the other side of things, they press and are forced to play uphill the entire game, they wear down at the end. And they did.
Offensively, neither team took care of the ball and it was as sloppy of a game you will see at an upper level 8th grade game. Both teams traded turnovers and bad passes all game long.
In the end, their talent was their own demise.
From 4th grade on, they finished .500 or better, and made the playoffs for three straight seasons prior to 2012-2013.
With a good record, they never dropped divisions, and never even moved up a division until this year. But unfortunately, for whatever reason, they were unable to bring their game to another level and make their final year of basketball a fond memory.
With less than 20 seconds left in the game, Brandon Khuu sat on the bench, with his head tilted back, and head spinning like there was no tomorrow.
In 8th grade basketball terms, there was no tomorrow as the class of 2013 lost their final basketball game in a St. Mary's uniform by a final score of 33-26 to complete a disappointing farewell season.
While it would be easy to focus on the negatives that surrounded the team all year long, Brandon physically being at the final game was symbolic of what the team could've and should've been.
Over the winter break, Brandon suffered an ankle injury and was all but ruled out for the rest of the basketball season.
Yet he showed up to the next game on crutches, and physically stood on the court to start the only game the 8th grade won. Then, not even at full strength, he took one for the team and played in the final two games, leaving it all out on the court.
Not wanting to disappoint his teammates or the school, he emptied his tank and left a lasting impression on his basketball career.
If only the team had more of that motivation and desire to play and get better, the 8th grade would not be sitting where it is right now.
Their final basketball game was a microcosm of how their entire season was, losing to a team they should've beaten.
But after repeating the same hackneyed phrase over and over, should they have beaten this team Saturday?
Did a team who was constantly beaten on the press from start to finish deserve to win this game?
Does a team that featured mistakes that have been talked about since 5th grade deserve a better fate?
Injuries and their lack of depth did not do this team any favors. In their division, the level of play is non-stop every second of the game. With only five players for pretty much the entire season, they wore down as the game progressed.
Even the best conditioned professional athletes have trouble going the entire way without a break, so you can imagine how it is when you're 13 or 14.
Without Aaron, James and Christian, who were all on the team last year, only five of the original core remained.
Moises, who was added to the team this season, provided some much needed athleticism, but having only a year of experience on a team that didn't win a game, proved a little too much for even Moises to overcome.
As for the game, Justin did not have his best day from the field, as one of the best shooters the school has to offer, wasn't able to connect from the perimeter.
Brandon Tom, who has made it a habit of hitting threes this season shot blanks from beyond the arc.
So with two of their top scorers struggling, the defense needed to step up and unfortunately they didn't.
The other team broke the press at will and scored almost all of their points around the basket.
Applying the full court press is almost a necessity for this team because if they sit back in a zone, they tend to get lazy and won't be as alert.
On the other side of things, they press and are forced to play uphill the entire game, they wear down at the end. And they did.
Offensively, neither team took care of the ball and it was as sloppy of a game you will see at an upper level 8th grade game. Both teams traded turnovers and bad passes all game long.
In the end, their talent was their own demise.
From 4th grade on, they finished .500 or better, and made the playoffs for three straight seasons prior to 2012-2013.
With a good record, they never dropped divisions, and never even moved up a division until this year. But unfortunately, for whatever reason, they were unable to bring their game to another level and make their final year of basketball a fond memory.
6th grade hangs on at the end to complete (8-0) season
Scoring points for the 6th grade isn't a big problem, but if the trend continues, stopping points will be.
After yielding 40 points in a three point win last Sunday, the 6th graders surrendered 36 points, with the bulk of the 36 coming from one player in a six point win to close out their regular season.
After scoring only two points in the 3rd quarter, the 6th grade dropped a 25 spot in the 4th quarter, a number that is astronomical in CYO standards.
The final score was 42-36.
Yes, the 6th grade now sits at (8-0) with the regular season over, but a livid Leslie lit into several of her players Saturday for their lackadaisical play.
A few players have become gutters on offense, which is disheartening for a team in such a high division. When certain players touch the ball, it becomes an instant turnover.
Jason Lei made some big shots throughout the game, including another 3 pointer, but his questionable defense left the gym shaking their head. Twice, he showed his love for the other team by attempting to wrap his arms around the player he guarded from behind.
Both times he was whistled for a foul.
Justin and Jonathan both hit the deck for what seems to be an annual visit from Leslie during the game to help them off the court.
In the 1st quarter, Justin appeared to bang his head on the ground, but he later got up and made one of his two free throws.
For the second straight week, Jonathan had to exit the game with a lower body injury. He later returned and hit several big buckets in the latter stages of the game.
The 6th grade trailed 29-28 with three minutes left, but there was the feeling that the 6th grade was going to mount a comeback.
A lot of that had to do with Michael, who tied his career high of 11 points. He did an exceptional job from the free throw line and made three of four.
Down a point, Michael drove and pulled up from the side of the basket for a mid-range jump shot that hit nothing but net giving the 6th grade the 30-29 lead.
Jonathan then hobbled back onto the court and right on cue, banked in a 3 pointer giving the 6th grade a four point lead.
It was not the best day for Jonathan, who did not make a single one of his free throws, which was shocking to the crowd, considering how automatic he has been from the line through his career.
Even on a bad shooting day, he managed to score 14 points, and made up for his spotty offense with crucial steals and tie-ups on the defensive end.
Now the real season begins.
The 6th grade has hit that level of what the regular season is to the San Jose Sharks, a formality.
Their two biggest games are ahead of them. With the number one seed, they will play the number four seed, which makes their path to the championship a little easier.
But there is on time for a letdown because one bad game, and it can all come to a screeching end.
And to prevent that bad game, it's going to have to start with doing a better job on defense.
After yielding 40 points in a three point win last Sunday, the 6th graders surrendered 36 points, with the bulk of the 36 coming from one player in a six point win to close out their regular season.
After scoring only two points in the 3rd quarter, the 6th grade dropped a 25 spot in the 4th quarter, a number that is astronomical in CYO standards.
The final score was 42-36.
Yes, the 6th grade now sits at (8-0) with the regular season over, but a livid Leslie lit into several of her players Saturday for their lackadaisical play.
A few players have become gutters on offense, which is disheartening for a team in such a high division. When certain players touch the ball, it becomes an instant turnover.
Jason Lei made some big shots throughout the game, including another 3 pointer, but his questionable defense left the gym shaking their head. Twice, he showed his love for the other team by attempting to wrap his arms around the player he guarded from behind.
Both times he was whistled for a foul.
Justin and Jonathan both hit the deck for what seems to be an annual visit from Leslie during the game to help them off the court.
In the 1st quarter, Justin appeared to bang his head on the ground, but he later got up and made one of his two free throws.
For the second straight week, Jonathan had to exit the game with a lower body injury. He later returned and hit several big buckets in the latter stages of the game.
The 6th grade trailed 29-28 with three minutes left, but there was the feeling that the 6th grade was going to mount a comeback.
A lot of that had to do with Michael, who tied his career high of 11 points. He did an exceptional job from the free throw line and made three of four.
Down a point, Michael drove and pulled up from the side of the basket for a mid-range jump shot that hit nothing but net giving the 6th grade the 30-29 lead.
Jonathan then hobbled back onto the court and right on cue, banked in a 3 pointer giving the 6th grade a four point lead.
It was not the best day for Jonathan, who did not make a single one of his free throws, which was shocking to the crowd, considering how automatic he has been from the line through his career.
Even on a bad shooting day, he managed to score 14 points, and made up for his spotty offense with crucial steals and tie-ups on the defensive end.
Now the real season begins.
The 6th grade has hit that level of what the regular season is to the San Jose Sharks, a formality.
Their two biggest games are ahead of them. With the number one seed, they will play the number four seed, which makes their path to the championship a little easier.
But there is on time for a letdown because one bad game, and it can all come to a screeching end.
And to prevent that bad game, it's going to have to start with doing a better job on defense.
Aaron scores in forfeit win for 7th grade
The 7th grade won via forfeit Saturday afternoon.
Their opponent was the same team they beat in the championship two years ago, but unfortunately the opposition has been rattled by injuries and did not have enough to field five for tip-off.
To make the forfeit win official, Aaron made a basket.
Their opponent was the same team they beat in the championship two years ago, but unfortunately the opposition has been rattled by injuries and did not have enough to field five for tip-off.
To make the forfeit win official, Aaron made a basket.
7th/8th grade girls lacking offense in Rec League
The 7th/8th grade, playing without Cynthia, saw their offense got into a complete funk, as they lost their third game of the season 18-6.
Physically, they were no match for the other team, as this 7th/8th grade team looks like it is built on skin and bones.
Nobody on the team plays or has the size of a true power forward or center, even a their age level, and that's problematic when they have to contend with teams that are bigger and stronger.
According to James, one of the coaches for this rec league, the other team had just about three times as many shots as the St. Mary's girls' did, and therefore the final score also read the same.
Victoria, Edwena and Kelly all had a basket each.
One way to beat size is with speed and quickness, but that's also a point of emphasis that the girls need to get better at in the upcoming games.
Physically, they were no match for the other team, as this 7th/8th grade team looks like it is built on skin and bones.
Nobody on the team plays or has the size of a true power forward or center, even a their age level, and that's problematic when they have to contend with teams that are bigger and stronger.
According to James, one of the coaches for this rec league, the other team had just about three times as many shots as the St. Mary's girls' did, and therefore the final score also read the same.
Victoria, Edwena and Kelly all had a basket each.
One way to beat size is with speed and quickness, but that's also a point of emphasis that the girls need to get better at in the upcoming games.
7th grade DMA streaking towards playoffs
Edzon had a break out game and had a career high 13 points, leading the 7th grade DMA boys to their third straight win, a 22-16 victory which put them on the doorstep of the playoffs.
After starting the season with four straight losses, the 7th graders (3-4) are on the brink of evening their regular season record at .500. They can do just that if they beat the team they beat Saturday again Friday night.
The other team had no answer for Edzon's size down in the post, as he got off to a fast start, scoring five points in the 1st quarter.
At one point in the game, the boys led by as much as 10 but that lead was cut to four in the 4th quarter when the other team pressed, causing the 7th graders to lose the ball.
But they soon learned how to break the press, and they did just enough at the end to hang on for the six point win.
The math is pretty simple for this team. Win and they are in the playoffs. Lose, and they'll need some help.
It's been a crazy turnaround for the six boys as less than 10 days ago, they didn't have a single win.
Now, they feel they have a pretty good chance of contending for the championship.
Matthew followed up his record performance last Saturday with a solid 5 points.
After starting the season with four straight losses, the 7th graders (3-4) are on the brink of evening their regular season record at .500. They can do just that if they beat the team they beat Saturday again Friday night.
The other team had no answer for Edzon's size down in the post, as he got off to a fast start, scoring five points in the 1st quarter.
At one point in the game, the boys led by as much as 10 but that lead was cut to four in the 4th quarter when the other team pressed, causing the 7th graders to lose the ball.
But they soon learned how to break the press, and they did just enough at the end to hang on for the six point win.
The math is pretty simple for this team. Win and they are in the playoffs. Lose, and they'll need some help.
It's been a crazy turnaround for the six boys as less than 10 days ago, they didn't have a single win.
Now, they feel they have a pretty good chance of contending for the championship.
Matthew followed up his record performance last Saturday with a solid 5 points.
5th/6th grade clinches a playoff spot
This time, it didn't take a last second free throw to win the game.
The 5th/6th grade won convincingly 20-8 Saturday morning to clinch a playoff spot, beating a team they beat by only one point over a month ago.
Andy hit a free throw with less than 10 seconds left the last time these two teams locked up, but the late game heroics were not needed in this game.
Eric Tung scored for the second straight game, as he started the offense with a bank shot in the 1st quarter.
Six of the seven players in uniform got on the scoresheet as they put together their best team win of the season.
The 20 points is also the most points they have scored as a team.
Shots and lay-ups weren't falling early in the game, but the team stayed patient and the balls started going through the net.
Adam had another strong game and had a game high 6 points while Eric L. added in 5 points.
Andy set a career high for himself and had 4 points, while Spencer had 2 points.
Jackie also had 2 points.
So with one game left, the 5th/6th grade (5-2) has already locked up a post-season berth.
They'll face a stiff challenge in their season finale, going up against the number one team in the division.
The 5th/6th grade won convincingly 20-8 Saturday morning to clinch a playoff spot, beating a team they beat by only one point over a month ago.
Andy hit a free throw with less than 10 seconds left the last time these two teams locked up, but the late game heroics were not needed in this game.
Eric Tung scored for the second straight game, as he started the offense with a bank shot in the 1st quarter.
Six of the seven players in uniform got on the scoresheet as they put together their best team win of the season.
The 20 points is also the most points they have scored as a team.
Shots and lay-ups weren't falling early in the game, but the team stayed patient and the balls started going through the net.
Adam had another strong game and had a game high 6 points while Eric L. added in 5 points.
Andy set a career high for himself and had 4 points, while Spencer had 2 points.
Jackie also had 2 points.
So with one game left, the 5th/6th grade (5-2) has already locked up a post-season berth.
They'll face a stiff challenge in their season finale, going up against the number one team in the division.
Despite loss, 4th grade takes a step forward
In their penultimate regular season game, the 4th grade suffered their fourth straight loss by a final score of 20-7, guaranteeing them a below .500 record in their sophomore campaign.
Brendan scored 3 points while Calvin and Nathan both added a bucket each in the loss.
The 4th grade, like they have been lately, were outmanned physically and fundamentally by the other team.
In a strange twist of irony, they allowed their opponent to score 20 points exactly for the second straight week.
Following a disastrous game last Saturday, this week, they actually put up some points and made a game of it.
Offensively, they do not have the makes of a fluid team yet, as their youth and inexperienced is exploited by teams that have more talent at this time.
It has not been a easy going for the youngest St. Mary's team this season, jumping two divisions and getting it handed to them in most of their losses.
At one point in the season, they were (2-1), but it's been a slide they have yet to get out of, and they'll only have one more game to do it.
For the second time in three weeks, a player from St. Peter Pacifica picked up a technical foul, except this time it wasn't an 8th grade game, it was a 4th grade game.
Go figure.
Brendan scored 3 points while Calvin and Nathan both added a bucket each in the loss.
The 4th grade, like they have been lately, were outmanned physically and fundamentally by the other team.
In a strange twist of irony, they allowed their opponent to score 20 points exactly for the second straight week.
Following a disastrous game last Saturday, this week, they actually put up some points and made a game of it.
Offensively, they do not have the makes of a fluid team yet, as their youth and inexperienced is exploited by teams that have more talent at this time.
It has not been a easy going for the youngest St. Mary's team this season, jumping two divisions and getting it handed to them in most of their losses.
At one point in the season, they were (2-1), but it's been a slide they have yet to get out of, and they'll only have one more game to do it.
For the second time in three weeks, a player from St. Peter Pacifica picked up a technical foul, except this time it wasn't an 8th grade game, it was a 4th grade game.
Go figure.
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Saturday Recap
The 6th grade completed an (8-0) season with a 42-36 win.
7th grade followed with a forfeit win when the other team did not show up, not one player or coach.
The 7th grade DMA might be the hottest team in the school, rolling off their third straight win 22-16 to improve to (3-4).
The 5th/6th grade is now (5-2) with a 20-8 win.
The 4th grade lost, but took a step forward from their stinker last week in a 20-7 loss.
The 7th/8th grade girls lost their rec league game 18-6.
And sadly, the 8th grade in a microcosm of their season, lost their final game in a St. Mary's basketball uniform 33-26 to a team that had also won one game coming into this morning's tilt.
7th grade followed with a forfeit win when the other team did not show up, not one player or coach.
The 7th grade DMA might be the hottest team in the school, rolling off their third straight win 22-16 to improve to (3-4).
The 5th/6th grade is now (5-2) with a 20-8 win.
The 4th grade lost, but took a step forward from their stinker last week in a 20-7 loss.
The 7th/8th grade girls lost their rec league game 18-6.
And sadly, the 8th grade in a microcosm of their season, lost their final game in a St. Mary's basketball uniform 33-26 to a team that had also won one game coming into this morning's tilt.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Thursday, January 24, 2013
The Big Announcement
So if you didn't know or couldn't tell, the big announcement is that this year's Warriors game with St. Mary's will feature the biggest profile game we have ever attended.
The Warriors vs The Houston Rockets and Jeremy Lin.
If you checked the blog during the summer, I posted this:
http://stmarysathletics.blogspot.com/2012/08/tease.html
So if you saw that, maybe you were lead in a certain direction. Perhaps not one direction though.
Should be an exciting game. If you are interested in going, please email me if you didn't get the form.
bcheung@stmaryschinese.org
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Your Latest Highlights
UPDATE - Apologies to Jason Hou, who was the one who scored the first two points of the 6th grade, and not Jonathan.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Monday, January 21, 2013
Meme Monday
Boys and girls, I present to you...the newest blog segment: Meme Monday.
Meme: pronounced "meeeem", not mee-mee.
Our first meme was created by Elliot.
Meme: pronounced "meeeem", not mee-mee.
Our first meme was created by Elliot.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
6th grade survives scare, pull out a close one
In more proof you can't win a game by looking at the standings, the 6th graders avoided an upset special Sunday, squeaking out a 43-40 win against a team with only one win coming into their match-up.
Jonathan left the game with an upper body injury in the second half, so the team was forced to play without one of their stronger players.
For the most part, the team stepped up in his absence and did just enough to pick up their seventh win of the season.
Michael had one of his better games this year and had 9 points, including a 3 pointer, while Jason Lei scored 14 points, 8 coming in the final six minutes.
With Little Johnny out of the game, the team probably would've wilted a year ago, but their depth on the team is so much better now with the experience they gained, the 6th grade (7-0) was able to sustain runs made by the other team.
It almost didn't happen because the team could not take care of the ball, with each of the seven players contributing to one of their highest turnover counts of the season.
Even with 20 seconds left in the game, they let a 6 point lead get cut in half because they simply couldn't execute a pass. Some of their players in this game were automatic turnovers when they touched the ball, looking like they were 3rd graders who are scared to be part of the offense.
Mistakes like that cannot happen in the playoffs.
The other team capitalized and scored a whopping 40 points on a team that normally keeps their opponent in check.
They also had too many breakdowns in their zone defense, which led to several easy buckets by the other team.
Mentally, they showed some toughness grinding through without Jonathan who had a game high 16 points despite only playing less than three quarters of the game.
Jason Hou had three points and was praised by Leslie following the game for doing the little things that don't show up on the scoresheet like rebounding and making good outlet passes.
Allen hit a free throw in the 4th quarter for his only point of the game.
For the second straight week, a St. Mary's game was played at Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep, home to the great Tiffany Vien.
Jonathan left the game with an upper body injury in the second half, so the team was forced to play without one of their stronger players.
For the most part, the team stepped up in his absence and did just enough to pick up their seventh win of the season.
Michael had one of his better games this year and had 9 points, including a 3 pointer, while Jason Lei scored 14 points, 8 coming in the final six minutes.
With Little Johnny out of the game, the team probably would've wilted a year ago, but their depth on the team is so much better now with the experience they gained, the 6th grade (7-0) was able to sustain runs made by the other team.
It almost didn't happen because the team could not take care of the ball, with each of the seven players contributing to one of their highest turnover counts of the season.
Even with 20 seconds left in the game, they let a 6 point lead get cut in half because they simply couldn't execute a pass. Some of their players in this game were automatic turnovers when they touched the ball, looking like they were 3rd graders who are scared to be part of the offense.
Mistakes like that cannot happen in the playoffs.
The other team capitalized and scored a whopping 40 points on a team that normally keeps their opponent in check.
They also had too many breakdowns in their zone defense, which led to several easy buckets by the other team.
Mentally, they showed some toughness grinding through without Jonathan who had a game high 16 points despite only playing less than three quarters of the game.
Jason Hou had three points and was praised by Leslie following the game for doing the little things that don't show up on the scoresheet like rebounding and making good outlet passes.
Allen hit a free throw in the 4th quarter for his only point of the game.
For the second straight week, a St. Mary's game was played at Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep, home to the great Tiffany Vien.
Back to back win for the 7th grade DMA boys
What a difference 48 hours can make.
When the 7th grade DeMarillac boys were down 5-0 Friday night, there was this eery feeling that they could very well go winless in their first year of playing basketball.
Strangely, if they continue to play the way they did Saturday, they may not lose another game this season.
Matthew exploded for a career high 17 points as the DMA boys routed their opponent 38-17.
This was the same team they were forced to forfeit against a few weeks back.
They had enough players this time around and boat-raced them by 21.
Plain and simple, the game was one on the glass, as the 7th graders dominated the boards on both ends of the court. On offense, they seemed to grab every offensive rebound, setting themselves up for a lot of easy buckets.
Defensively, the other team was one and done, as they sealed the paint from start to finish.
Edzon had a career high 8 points, and as did Vince, who scored 7 points. Vince also hit a 3 pointer for the second straight game.
Due to a previous commitment, Matthew almost didn't show up to the game and luckily he did because he had the game of his life.
He has slowly improved with his dribbling skills and does just enough to get by defenders and drive to the basket for some easy points. Saturday, he was aggressive and just continued to score and score and score.
At (2-4), the 7th graders are still alive and well in the playoff chase. In this five team division, only one team goes home. They have two games against the same team to close out the year.
Simple math says win both and they're in the playoffs.
But after looking at their performance in this game, the boys may be looking beyond that.
Their next big challenge is to see if everyone can show up to practice the next day.
When the 7th grade DeMarillac boys were down 5-0 Friday night, there was this eery feeling that they could very well go winless in their first year of playing basketball.
Strangely, if they continue to play the way they did Saturday, they may not lose another game this season.
Matthew exploded for a career high 17 points as the DMA boys routed their opponent 38-17.
This was the same team they were forced to forfeit against a few weeks back.
They had enough players this time around and boat-raced them by 21.
Plain and simple, the game was one on the glass, as the 7th graders dominated the boards on both ends of the court. On offense, they seemed to grab every offensive rebound, setting themselves up for a lot of easy buckets.
Defensively, the other team was one and done, as they sealed the paint from start to finish.
Edzon had a career high 8 points, and as did Vince, who scored 7 points. Vince also hit a 3 pointer for the second straight game.
Due to a previous commitment, Matthew almost didn't show up to the game and luckily he did because he had the game of his life.
He has slowly improved with his dribbling skills and does just enough to get by defenders and drive to the basket for some easy points. Saturday, he was aggressive and just continued to score and score and score.
At (2-4), the 7th graders are still alive and well in the playoff chase. In this five team division, only one team goes home. They have two games against the same team to close out the year.
Simple math says win both and they're in the playoffs.
But after looking at their performance in this game, the boys may be looking beyond that.
Their next big challenge is to see if everyone can show up to practice the next day.
5th/6th grade hit shot late for fourth win
The playing not to lose method worked last week for the 5th/6th graders, but it didn't Saturday.
Up 13-8 to start the 4th quarter, the 5th/6th grade boys were looking at the clock, hoping it would hit 0:00, instead of trying to extend their lead.
Soon enough, the scoreboard read 14-13, in favor of the other team.
But after Adam hit a free throw to tie the game with less than a minute to go, Spencer came up with a steal to start the fast break. Eric Tung ran as the trail down the middle, got the ball right above the free throw line, and banked in the game winning shot in a 16-14 victory, a win that gave the 5th/6th grade their fourth win of the season, and another step closer to clinching a playoff spot.
With 17.6 seconds left on the clock, the other team had more than enough time to send the game into overtime. They had a few shots by the basket, but did not get the roll. The 5th/6th graders might've escaped with a win.
Spencer and Adam did the heavy lifting and both had seven points each, while Eric T's only shot of the game was the game winner.
Andy hit a shot, but it went into the team's own basket.
The game was tied at 5-5 at the break, but Adam and Spencer came out on fire in the 3rd quarter and led the boys to a five point lead, which they relinquished.
As the buzzer buzzed, the St. Mary's side of the crowd could only exhale.
At (4-2), they can guarantee themselves a post-season berth with a win next Saturday.
Judging by the standings, they beat a team that came into Saturday with a (5-1) record. This was also the same team they faced to start the year. They lost that game by four points.
Up 13-8 to start the 4th quarter, the 5th/6th grade boys were looking at the clock, hoping it would hit 0:00, instead of trying to extend their lead.
Soon enough, the scoreboard read 14-13, in favor of the other team.
But after Adam hit a free throw to tie the game with less than a minute to go, Spencer came up with a steal to start the fast break. Eric Tung ran as the trail down the middle, got the ball right above the free throw line, and banked in the game winning shot in a 16-14 victory, a win that gave the 5th/6th grade their fourth win of the season, and another step closer to clinching a playoff spot.
With 17.6 seconds left on the clock, the other team had more than enough time to send the game into overtime. They had a few shots by the basket, but did not get the roll. The 5th/6th graders might've escaped with a win.
Spencer and Adam did the heavy lifting and both had seven points each, while Eric T's only shot of the game was the game winner.
Andy hit a shot, but it went into the team's own basket.
The game was tied at 5-5 at the break, but Adam and Spencer came out on fire in the 3rd quarter and led the boys to a five point lead, which they relinquished.
As the buzzer buzzed, the St. Mary's side of the crowd could only exhale.
At (4-2), they can guarantee themselves a post-season berth with a win next Saturday.
Judging by the standings, they beat a team that came into Saturday with a (5-1) record. This was also the same team they faced to start the year. They lost that game by four points.
7th/8th grade girls win rec league game
Kelly had a career high 10 points as the 7th/8th grade girls won their rec league game 20-15.
Victoria and Fiona, who played soccer just hours prior to tipoff, both scored four points. Cynthia and Edwena all chipped in with a free throw each.
The girls were down 10-8 at halftime, but their defense really locked down the rest of the way.
Jamie did not play due to the flu.
Victoria and Fiona, who played soccer just hours prior to tipoff, both scored four points. Cynthia and Edwena all chipped in with a free throw each.
The girls were down 10-8 at halftime, but their defense really locked down the rest of the way.
Jamie did not play due to the flu.
8th grade can't build on first win
If you are one of those people who likes to examine the standings, and play they beat them, so therefore they should beat them, then the 8th grade should've won Saturday's game convincingly.
Except games aren't played in hypotheticals.
After winning their first game of the season last week, the 8th grade looked more like their season long selves in a 37-24 loss.
Working to their disadvantage was Brandon Khuu not at 100% due to his ankle injury. Brandon Tom fighting the flu, and Christian, practicing only once with the team.
They looked discombobulated and had a game that was winnable once again slip away.
But then again, when the games keep slipping away over and over, is the team really capable of stringing together victories?
Offensively, they just didn't get much, with no player scoring more than six points, which is not going to cut it at the 8th grade level, and especially not in division four.
This loss just compounded their overall frustrating 8th grade year, and even if they win the final game of the season next Saturday, their final campaign on the basketball court will be characterized a disappointment.
With a team filled with such talent, it's a tragedy to see the lack of effort in practices, which then translate to the failures come game time.
By no means is this team full of lazy players, but one or two tend to poison the well, as with last year;s 8th grade girls team.
The constant immaturity shown at practices by certain individuals cause a chain reaction of the entire team slowing down a step, and there comes a point where there's nothing a coach can do.
One of their coaches said that the team sprints very fast in practice when timed. But once the stopwatch gets stowed away, a few players decide to lag and drills become a chore, and not something the team wants to get better at doing.
Mercifully, this forgettable season comes to a close next Saturday.
Except games aren't played in hypotheticals.
After winning their first game of the season last week, the 8th grade looked more like their season long selves in a 37-24 loss.
Working to their disadvantage was Brandon Khuu not at 100% due to his ankle injury. Brandon Tom fighting the flu, and Christian, practicing only once with the team.
They looked discombobulated and had a game that was winnable once again slip away.
But then again, when the games keep slipping away over and over, is the team really capable of stringing together victories?
Offensively, they just didn't get much, with no player scoring more than six points, which is not going to cut it at the 8th grade level, and especially not in division four.
This loss just compounded their overall frustrating 8th grade year, and even if they win the final game of the season next Saturday, their final campaign on the basketball court will be characterized a disappointment.
With a team filled with such talent, it's a tragedy to see the lack of effort in practices, which then translate to the failures come game time.
By no means is this team full of lazy players, but one or two tend to poison the well, as with last year;s 8th grade girls team.
The constant immaturity shown at practices by certain individuals cause a chain reaction of the entire team slowing down a step, and there comes a point where there's nothing a coach can do.
One of their coaches said that the team sprints very fast in practice when timed. But once the stopwatch gets stowed away, a few players decide to lag and drills become a chore, and not something the team wants to get better at doing.
Mercifully, this forgettable season comes to a close next Saturday.
4th grade loses third straight
The 4th grade boys are in a major funk and showed no signs of getting out of it Saturday morning at St. Monica's.
They lost for the third straight game and in decisive fashion, not putting up much a fight, a disturbing trend for a team that made the playoffs last season and were (2-1) after three games.
Their coach Justin called this game "not pretty" which was probably an understatement as the boys didn't get anything going on either end of the court.
Turnovers and missed shots from point blank plagued them all game long and left them with blank stares on their faces after the game.
It's been a tough few weeks for the youngest team at St. Mary's, as they struggle to find momentum.
Matched up against better teams, the boys simply haven't elevated their game and can't compete with teams that actually have an idea of what is going on during the game.
The true makeup of a team is how it performs against stronger competition and so far the boys have fallen flat on their face.
There are two games left in the season, and it'll be interesting how they respond. Their next two come against teams that have already clinched playoff berths, something the 4th grade will have to wait until next season to do at (2-4).
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Saturday Results
What a day it has been so far.
Eric Tung hit a shot with less than 20 seconds to go, which was the game winner for the 5th/6th grade as they improved to (4-2) on the year with a 16-14 win.
The 7th grade DeMarillac boys came ready to play and blew out the number one team in the division 38-17, Matthew had a career high 17 points. They are now (2-4).
The 4th graders lost for the third straight game and fell to (2-4).
The girls soccer team was shutout, and have one game left, tomorrow at Fairmont Field.
The 7th/8th girls won their rec league game 20-15.
The 8th grade boys lost 37-23 in their penultimate game.
Full recaps to come later tonight.
Eric Tung hit a shot with less than 20 seconds to go, which was the game winner for the 5th/6th grade as they improved to (4-2) on the year with a 16-14 win.
The 7th grade DeMarillac boys came ready to play and blew out the number one team in the division 38-17, Matthew had a career high 17 points. They are now (2-4).
The 4th graders lost for the third straight game and fell to (2-4).
The girls soccer team was shutout, and have one game left, tomorrow at Fairmont Field.
The 7th/8th girls won their rec league game 20-15.
The 8th grade boys lost 37-23 in their penultimate game.
Full recaps to come later tonight.
7th grade comes up with a big win
The 7th grade bounced back in a big way Friday night and handed the second place team in the division a 31-20 loss on their home floor.
With a lot better execution and focus than their previous game Sunday at Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep, home to the great Gregory Huie, the 7th grade came ready to play and held a 14-8 lead at halftime.
Thomas had one of his best games all year and had 5 points, including a beautiful coast to coast lay-up done the right way.
Garrick, although he didn't score, was aggressive and quick to the ball down in the post, as he among the other post players, The Twins and Ryan all had a strong effort.
Ryan even hit his second three ball of the season.
Jason Ng continues to contribute on a regular basis as he had 8 points and Raymond had his proverbial game high. He had 14 points.
It was a good mental test for the boys as well because the other team on numerous occasions tried to do their best Vlade Divac impression by flopping. But none of that rattled the 7th graders as they had one of their most impressive wins of the season.
At (4-2), they are now in a very good spot to guarantee their third straight post-season appearance and can even get a high seed if they can perform at a high level in their final two games of the season.
Raymond also added two 3 pointers, the first two he has made all season.
With a lot better execution and focus than their previous game Sunday at Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep, home to the great Gregory Huie, the 7th grade came ready to play and held a 14-8 lead at halftime.
Thomas had one of his best games all year and had 5 points, including a beautiful coast to coast lay-up done the right way.
Garrick, although he didn't score, was aggressive and quick to the ball down in the post, as he among the other post players, The Twins and Ryan all had a strong effort.
Ryan even hit his second three ball of the season.
Jason Ng continues to contribute on a regular basis as he had 8 points and Raymond had his proverbial game high. He had 14 points.
It was a good mental test for the boys as well because the other team on numerous occasions tried to do their best Vlade Divac impression by flopping. But none of that rattled the 7th graders as they had one of their most impressive wins of the season.
At (4-2), they are now in a very good spot to guarantee their third straight post-season appearance and can even get a high seed if they can perform at a high level in their final two games of the season.
Raymond also added two 3 pointers, the first two he has made all season.
Friday, January 18, 2013
7th grade DMA gets their first win
The 5-0 deficit in the 3rd quarter looked like it would send the 7th grade DeMarillac boys to their fifth straight loss.
But after two quick shots, we had ourselves a 5-5 tie.
They then outscored their opponent 4-2 in the 4th quarter and came away with their first career victory, a 9-8 win that kept them alive for the fourth and final playoff spot.
Matthew broke the ice with a nice full court crossover into a lay-up and then Vince hit his first career 3 pointer to tie the game at 5-5.
After the other team hit a free throw, Edzon put the boys on top with a strong putback in the lane. Alfonso then followed with a nothing but net jumper which closed out the scoring.
For most of the game, the 7th graders (1-4) were making the same mistakes, turning the ball over, and just overall lacking awareness.
But once a few shots started to fall, they started to gain confidence and had numerous occasions to score a lot more points.
Unfortunately, they missed a good amount of lay-ups and went 0-for-6 from the free throw line.
They held a 9-6 lead with less than 4 minutes left until the other team hit a shot with under 40 seconds to go in the game.
The 7th grade turned the ball over, but escaped disaster as Matthew blocked a shot with just a few seconds left. He picked up the loose ball and passed it to Vince as time expired.
After the game, the boys and their coaches were all smiles for the very first time.
It's a quick turnaround as they will have to play Saturday afternoon in a back-to-back.
But after two quick shots, we had ourselves a 5-5 tie.
They then outscored their opponent 4-2 in the 4th quarter and came away with their first career victory, a 9-8 win that kept them alive for the fourth and final playoff spot.
Matthew broke the ice with a nice full court crossover into a lay-up and then Vince hit his first career 3 pointer to tie the game at 5-5.
After the other team hit a free throw, Edzon put the boys on top with a strong putback in the lane. Alfonso then followed with a nothing but net jumper which closed out the scoring.
For most of the game, the 7th graders (1-4) were making the same mistakes, turning the ball over, and just overall lacking awareness.
But once a few shots started to fall, they started to gain confidence and had numerous occasions to score a lot more points.
Unfortunately, they missed a good amount of lay-ups and went 0-for-6 from the free throw line.
They held a 9-6 lead with less than 4 minutes left until the other team hit a shot with under 40 seconds to go in the game.
The 7th grade turned the ball over, but escaped disaster as Matthew blocked a shot with just a few seconds left. He picked up the loose ball and passed it to Vince as time expired.
After the game, the boys and their coaches were all smiles for the very first time.
It's a quick turnaround as they will have to play Saturday afternoon in a back-to-back.
Shem's Corner - Talking Ball
Today on Shem's Corner, he talks about the upcoming NFL playoff games, where he even gives his bold prediction on the 49ers game. He also touches on the struggles of the Lakers, the early season success of the Warriors, and how he thinks the San Jose Sharks will fair this season.
So click below.
So click below.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
A Message from Timmy
help me congratulate the teams that won over the weekend, especially the 8th grade for playing with 4
thx, Timmy
Sunday, January 13, 2013
7th grade overcomes sluggish start, pull above .500
There were parts of the 7th grade boys game Sunday that was just plain bad.
It was summed up in one sequence late in the 1st quarter when four different players took turns missing shots from within close range, with a few of them not even having a prayer of going into the basket.
They looked like they had the skill level of 4th graders stuck in a 7th grade body, throwing up shots with one hand that went over the backboard, chucking the ball back at Raymond at full speed because they were afraid of holding onto the ball for longer than two seconds, and inspecting the ball on fast breaks by not looking up court to the open teammate.
Raymond had a very bipolar performance, as the bad Raymond played the first half out of breath, tired and uninspired.
Then came the second half when Raymond woke up and surged straight to the basket on consecutive drives, making some real tough shots around the hoop. He had a game high 11 points.
The offense was sparked late in the first half when Aaron threw up a 3 pointer for his first career shot from beyond the arc. Jason Ng then followed with two nice drives to the basket off of Raymond passes in transition.
At (3-2), they are very well and alive in the playoff chase, but if the 7th graders can't play consistently at a higher level, it's going to be another one and done playoff.
Maybe it was the awkward 1 p.m. Sunday start time, in which they are normally wrapping up their practice that led to a lack of energy in the first 10 minutes of the game.
Or perhaps it was overlooking an opponent which hadn't won any games this season.
Whatever it was, it wasn't good for the most part.
Their biggest problem boils down to fundamentals, and this team does not have it. It's not something that is solved overnight but even slight improvements can't be found.
The post players, especially The Twins, cannot shoot correctly and do not consistently make shots by the basket. One of the Twins' even follows through with his left hand when he is a right handed shot.
Joseph, Thomas, Garrick and Ryan are all pretty good rebounders more often than not, but they rarely put the ball back in the hoop, and those gimmes are going to loom large come playoff time if they can't get better at it.
It was summed up in one sequence late in the 1st quarter when four different players took turns missing shots from within close range, with a few of them not even having a prayer of going into the basket.
They looked like they had the skill level of 4th graders stuck in a 7th grade body, throwing up shots with one hand that went over the backboard, chucking the ball back at Raymond at full speed because they were afraid of holding onto the ball for longer than two seconds, and inspecting the ball on fast breaks by not looking up court to the open teammate.
Raymond had a very bipolar performance, as the bad Raymond played the first half out of breath, tired and uninspired.
Then came the second half when Raymond woke up and surged straight to the basket on consecutive drives, making some real tough shots around the hoop. He had a game high 11 points.
The offense was sparked late in the first half when Aaron threw up a 3 pointer for his first career shot from beyond the arc. Jason Ng then followed with two nice drives to the basket off of Raymond passes in transition.
At (3-2), they are very well and alive in the playoff chase, but if the 7th graders can't play consistently at a higher level, it's going to be another one and done playoff.
Maybe it was the awkward 1 p.m. Sunday start time, in which they are normally wrapping up their practice that led to a lack of energy in the first 10 minutes of the game.
Or perhaps it was overlooking an opponent which hadn't won any games this season.
Whatever it was, it wasn't good for the most part.
Their biggest problem boils down to fundamentals, and this team does not have it. It's not something that is solved overnight but even slight improvements can't be found.
The post players, especially The Twins, cannot shoot correctly and do not consistently make shots by the basket. One of the Twins' even follows through with his left hand when he is a right handed shot.
Joseph, Thomas, Garrick and Ryan are all pretty good rebounders more often than not, but they rarely put the ball back in the hoop, and those gimmes are going to loom large come playoff time if they can't get better at it.
8th grade wins first game in the most unimaginable way
If you can't win with five players, how about just playing four?
That's exactly what the 8th grade boys did Saturday afternoon in their first win of the regular season.
Playing with only four players for pretty much the entire game, the class of 2013 won by a final of 28-20, with Moises leading the way with a season high 10 points.
Brandon Khuu was in uniform and started the game but could not continue, so it was equivalent to a hockey penalty kill for close to 28 minutes. And they killed it off.
At least for one day, the 8th graders could celebrate after the final buzzer, enjoying the taste of victory for the first time since the final round of the pre-season tournament in late November.
Justin scored 8 points, Brandon Tom 7 points and Daniel 3.
Congratulations to the boys for a much needed win.
That's exactly what the 8th grade boys did Saturday afternoon in their first win of the regular season.
Playing with only four players for pretty much the entire game, the class of 2013 won by a final of 28-20, with Moises leading the way with a season high 10 points.
Brandon Khuu was in uniform and started the game but could not continue, so it was equivalent to a hockey penalty kill for close to 28 minutes. And they killed it off.
At least for one day, the 8th graders could celebrate after the final buzzer, enjoying the taste of victory for the first time since the final round of the pre-season tournament in late November.
Justin scored 8 points, Brandon Tom 7 points and Daniel 3.
Congratulations to the boys for a much needed win.
5th/6th grade doesn't lose, forced to win
Neither team played like they wanted to win, but at least one team played like they didn't want to lose, and that team was the 5th/6th graders who prevailed in a offensively starved 6-5 victory.
Eric L. scored the first three points of the game and then had to leave with a stomach cramp. He then returned later in the first half and added a free throw for his game high 4 points. Yes, his game high 4 points.
Either the rims weren't kind to either team or nobody wanted to score.
Jackie grabbed an offensive rebound late in the 3rd quarter and put it back for the team's final basket of the game, and somehow that bucket held until the final seconds.
Up by a point with less than a minute to go, the 5th/6th grade escaped a scare when Spencer blindly threw a ball into the other team's hand, which led to a fast break lay-up.
However, continuing the trend of the game, the lay-up was missed and the 5th/6th graders hung on for dear life.
They definitely had their chances to score, and could've put up close to 20 points had they converted half their shots by the basket, but nothing they shot went in the basket.
On the defensive end, they made enough stops and grabbed enough boards for win number three on the season.
At (3-2), they are in a good position for a playoff push, as the boys currently sit in the fourth and final playoff spot in only their first year of basketball.
Eric L. scored the first three points of the game and then had to leave with a stomach cramp. He then returned later in the first half and added a free throw for his game high 4 points. Yes, his game high 4 points.
Either the rims weren't kind to either team or nobody wanted to score.
Jackie grabbed an offensive rebound late in the 3rd quarter and put it back for the team's final basket of the game, and somehow that bucket held until the final seconds.
Up by a point with less than a minute to go, the 5th/6th grade escaped a scare when Spencer blindly threw a ball into the other team's hand, which led to a fast break lay-up.
However, continuing the trend of the game, the lay-up was missed and the 5th/6th graders hung on for dear life.
They definitely had their chances to score, and could've put up close to 20 points had they converted half their shots by the basket, but nothing they shot went in the basket.
On the defensive end, they made enough stops and grabbed enough boards for win number three on the season.
At (3-2), they are in a good position for a playoff push, as the boys currently sit in the fourth and final playoff spot in only their first year of basketball.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Saturday Girls Soccer and Basketball Results
The girls soccer team lost their fourth game of the season and were shutout, while the 7th/8th grade girls basketball team, playing together in a San Francisco Rec League lost as well.
Turnovers lead to the 4th grade demise
When you can't take care of the ball, you can't win games.
Stricken by turnovers from start to finish, the 4th grade boys were doubled up 20-10 and handed their third loss of the season. Their record now sits at (2-3).
Nathan had a team high 6 points, but it was not enough to overcome a stagnant offense, which had trouble getting off shots the entire game.
The other team seemed to get a good shot on almost every possession, quite the contrary to the 4th grade team that stalled trip after trip.
They tend to bunch up on the court which makes it a lot easier for the other team to defend.
Brendan didn't have his best day running the point, dribbling into traffic several times and lobbing passes that had no chance of getting to the target.
Like many teams, the 4th grade is too focused on working the ball to the right side. Even when the other team overloads their defense towards that side of the court, stubbornly, the boys continue and try to pound it towards the right corner.
In the bigger picture, their playoff hopes are on life support.
In a division where the top teams all have more victories, the 4th grade will most likely need to win their final three games in order to make the post-season for the second consecutive year.
Brendan and Calvin both scored 2 points in the loss.
Stricken by turnovers from start to finish, the 4th grade boys were doubled up 20-10 and handed their third loss of the season. Their record now sits at (2-3).
Nathan had a team high 6 points, but it was not enough to overcome a stagnant offense, which had trouble getting off shots the entire game.
The other team seemed to get a good shot on almost every possession, quite the contrary to the 4th grade team that stalled trip after trip.
They tend to bunch up on the court which makes it a lot easier for the other team to defend.
Brendan didn't have his best day running the point, dribbling into traffic several times and lobbing passes that had no chance of getting to the target.
Like many teams, the 4th grade is too focused on working the ball to the right side. Even when the other team overloads their defense towards that side of the court, stubbornly, the boys continue and try to pound it towards the right corner.
In the bigger picture, their playoff hopes are on life support.
In a division where the top teams all have more victories, the 4th grade will most likely need to win their final three games in order to make the post-season for the second consecutive year.
Brendan and Calvin both scored 2 points in the loss.
Friday, January 11, 2013
8th grade assures themselves of a below .500 record
The 8th grade boys came into their CYO careers winning only three games in 3rd grade. They'll be lucky if they can reach that total in their final year.
Marred with injuries, among a plethora of other issues, the 8th graders lost again Friday night, this time by a final of 39-22 to another winless team, and assured themselves a sub-500 record.
If they can win their final three games, they can finish with a somewhat respectable (3-5) mark, but even that seems far fetched considering the problems they have gone through this season.
Playing without the injured Brandon Khuu and Brendan, the team had only five players, as Christian played again without practice.
There is absolutely no team chemistry as this current crop of five has yet to practice as a full team and it clearly shows and hurts them on the court.
It is a very tough way to end a career at St. Mary's, but they'll have at least three games, including a game tomorrow to pick up at least one win to make their efforts look respectable.
Marred with injuries, among a plethora of other issues, the 8th graders lost again Friday night, this time by a final of 39-22 to another winless team, and assured themselves a sub-500 record.
If they can win their final three games, they can finish with a somewhat respectable (3-5) mark, but even that seems far fetched considering the problems they have gone through this season.
Playing without the injured Brandon Khuu and Brendan, the team had only five players, as Christian played again without practice.
There is absolutely no team chemistry as this current crop of five has yet to practice as a full team and it clearly shows and hurts them on the court.
It is a very tough way to end a career at St. Mary's, but they'll have at least three games, including a game tomorrow to pick up at least one win to make their efforts look respectable.
7th grade Demarillac still winless
The 7th grade DeMarillac boys were down only four points with less than three minutes to go, but were unable to score another point from that point forward.
They lose 17-10 and still have not won a game this season.
In a five team division, only one team will not make the playoffs and it looks like it could be the 7th graders if they cannot pick up some wins in their final four games.
Currently, they sit at (0-4).
They lose 17-10 and still have not won a game this season.
In a five team division, only one team will not make the playoffs and it looks like it could be the 7th graders if they cannot pick up some wins in their final four games.
Currently, they sit at (0-4).
Happy Birthday Cynthia
Happy Birthday to my current favorite girl in 8th grade that is named Cynthia...Cynthia.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Shem's Corner - Adventures at Basketball Camp
We shot this all the way back in July, but I never got around to editing it. So I had some time and decided to slap this together in hopes that we can start transitioning away from The Shem to the new heir apparent of the corner.
Yes, very long overdue, but it's always better late than never. So enjoy.
Monday, January 7, 2013
Remaining Boys Basketball Schedules
With a lot of changes being made to the CYO schedule since the season started, below is the rest of the schedule for all the teams. These are as current as they get here on Monday, January 7.
4TH GRADE
Saturday, January 12, 10 a.m. @ St. Monica
Saturday, January 19, 10 a.m. @ St. Monica
Saturday, January 26, 9 a.m. @ St. Peter Pacifica
Saturday, February 2, 3 p.m. @ Mission Dolores
5TH/6TH GRADE
Saturday, January 12, 2 p.m. @ St. Gabriel
Saturday, January 19, 10 a.m. @ Holy Name
Saturday, January 26, 11 a.m. @ St. John
Friday, Februray 1, 5 p.m. @ Mission Dolores
6TH GRADE
Sunday, January 20, 12 p.m. @ Sacred Heart
Saturday, January 26, 1 p.m. @ St. Monica
7TH GRADE
Sunday, January 13, 1 p.m. @ Sacred Heart
Friday, January 18, 6 p.m. @ St. Stephen
Saturday, January 26, 2 p.m. @ St. Monica
Friday, February 1, 8 p.m. @ Mission Dolores
7TH GRADE DEMARILLAC
Friday, January 11, 5 p.m. @ St. Peter Pacifica
Friday, January 18, 6:15 p.m. @ Town
Saturday, January 19, 12 p.m. @ St. Stephen
Saturday, January 26, 1 p.m. @ Herbert Center
Friday, February 1, 7 p.m. @ Mission Dolores
8TH GRADE
Friday, January 11 - 5:15 p.m. @ St. Emydius
Saturday, January 12 - 4 p.m. @ Herbert Center
Saturday, January 19, 3 p.m. @ Herbert Center
Saturday, January 26, 11:30 a.m. @ St. Thomas More
4TH GRADE
Saturday, January 12, 10 a.m. @ St. Monica
Saturday, January 19, 10 a.m. @ St. Monica
Saturday, January 26, 9 a.m. @ St. Peter Pacifica
Saturday, February 2, 3 p.m. @ Mission Dolores
5TH/6TH GRADE
Saturday, January 12, 2 p.m. @ St. Gabriel
Saturday, January 19, 10 a.m. @ Holy Name
Saturday, January 26, 11 a.m. @ St. John
Friday, Februray 1, 5 p.m. @ Mission Dolores
6TH GRADE
Sunday, January 20, 12 p.m. @ Sacred Heart
Saturday, January 26, 1 p.m. @ St. Monica
7TH GRADE
Sunday, January 13, 1 p.m. @ Sacred Heart
Friday, January 18, 6 p.m. @ St. Stephen
Saturday, January 26, 2 p.m. @ St. Monica
Friday, February 1, 8 p.m. @ Mission Dolores
7TH GRADE DEMARILLAC
Friday, January 11, 5 p.m. @ St. Peter Pacifica
Friday, January 18, 6:15 p.m. @ Town
Saturday, January 19, 12 p.m. @ St. Stephen
Saturday, January 26, 1 p.m. @ Herbert Center
Friday, February 1, 7 p.m. @ Mission Dolores
8TH GRADE
Friday, January 11 - 5:15 p.m. @ St. Emydius
Saturday, January 12 - 4 p.m. @ Herbert Center
Saturday, January 19, 3 p.m. @ Herbert Center
Saturday, January 26, 11:30 a.m. @ St. Thomas More
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Happy Birthday Fiona
Happy Birthday to Fiona. I would've made her a video but she has told me in the past she doesn't like to look at the blog cause she needs to spend quality time with people.
So there you go...
So there you go...
7th grade back at .500 with a big win
In a day where every St. Mary's game was a blowout, the 7th grade made sure they were on the winning end of one putting that 25 point rule into effect once again as they won 32-4.
Not even the 7th graders could see this one coming given how tough their last two games were.
They went up against a team which shared a (1-2) record coming into the two teams' fourth game of the season. But after seven minutes of play, it was apparent the other team was still on winter break.
The 7th grade blitzed the other team and got out to an early 11-0 and never looked back. In fact, they had their best defensive performance to date, limiting the opponent to only two field goals the entire game.
With the win, they are back at .500 with an even (2-2) record.
For years, the 7th graders would win tight games, and once in a while would win one in the mid-teens.
So Sunday was definitely something out of the norm.
In fact, it was their most lopsided victory since a blowout win in the 2011 regular season.
Raymond continued his bipolar play and scored 19 points, a new career high for Kevin's younger brother.
After a bad game to end 2012, Raymond had the jump in his step he needs every game and was above and beyond the best player on the court.
Overall, the team was just better and six out of the seven players in uniform got on the scoreboard, including Willard, who registered his first bucket since the final game of the preseason tournament.
Garrick had a season high 4 points, while Ryan and Thomas both had a bucket each. Jason Ng hit a 3 pointer for his only made shot of the afternoon.
The team was missing Aaron.
Not even the 7th graders could see this one coming given how tough their last two games were.
They went up against a team which shared a (1-2) record coming into the two teams' fourth game of the season. But after seven minutes of play, it was apparent the other team was still on winter break.
The 7th grade blitzed the other team and got out to an early 11-0 and never looked back. In fact, they had their best defensive performance to date, limiting the opponent to only two field goals the entire game.
With the win, they are back at .500 with an even (2-2) record.
For years, the 7th graders would win tight games, and once in a while would win one in the mid-teens.
So Sunday was definitely something out of the norm.
In fact, it was their most lopsided victory since a blowout win in the 2011 regular season.
Raymond continued his bipolar play and scored 19 points, a new career high for Kevin's younger brother.
After a bad game to end 2012, Raymond had the jump in his step he needs every game and was above and beyond the best player on the court.
Overall, the team was just better and six out of the seven players in uniform got on the scoreboard, including Willard, who registered his first bucket since the final game of the preseason tournament.
Garrick had a season high 4 points, while Ryan and Thomas both had a bucket each. Jason Ng hit a 3 pointer for his only made shot of the afternoon.
The team was missing Aaron.
6th grade picks up 6th win in romp
The 6th graders Sunday also experienced the 25 point lead in the 4th quarter, except they were the team in firm control as the boys picked up win number six on the season, beating their opponent 36-4.
Right off the tip there was the feeling that it would be lopsided.
Jason Lei tapped one to Jonathan in the front court as he easily went to the basket for a lay-up from the left side, which he's able to do in his sleep.
With the other team clearly outmatched, the 6th grade put the game away in the 1st quarter and built a 16-0 lead.
Jonathan had 7 points, including another 3 pointer in the first half, while Michael broke out of a mini scoring slump and added in 7 points of his own, also hitting a 3 pointer in the first half.
The other team only had five players and were definitely in a division too high for their skill level. But there have been too many times where a St. Mary's team was on the losing end of one of these type of games, so you need to take advantage of the situation when it arises.
That's what Jason Lei did as he hardly broke a sweat, easily dominating the paint, scoring 17 points.
So far so good this season as the 6th graders have won their first six games. After a week break, they will have two more before it's time to gear up for the playoffs.
Justin, although scoring only one point on a free throw, had one of his best games to date, playing some solid defense, and coming up with several steals in the 1st quarter.
Allen knocked in two jump shots, one in each half and had 4 points on the day.
The team was playing with only 6th players as Jason Hou is still overseas.
Coach Elliot also subbed in for the missing Nick.
Right off the tip there was the feeling that it would be lopsided.
Jason Lei tapped one to Jonathan in the front court as he easily went to the basket for a lay-up from the left side, which he's able to do in his sleep.
With the other team clearly outmatched, the 6th grade put the game away in the 1st quarter and built a 16-0 lead.
Jonathan had 7 points, including another 3 pointer in the first half, while Michael broke out of a mini scoring slump and added in 7 points of his own, also hitting a 3 pointer in the first half.
The other team only had five players and were definitely in a division too high for their skill level. But there have been too many times where a St. Mary's team was on the losing end of one of these type of games, so you need to take advantage of the situation when it arises.
That's what Jason Lei did as he hardly broke a sweat, easily dominating the paint, scoring 17 points.
So far so good this season as the 6th graders have won their first six games. After a week break, they will have two more before it's time to gear up for the playoffs.
Justin, although scoring only one point on a free throw, had one of his best games to date, playing some solid defense, and coming up with several steals in the 1st quarter.
Allen knocked in two jump shots, one in each half and had 4 points on the day.
The team was playing with only 6th players as Jason Hou is still overseas.
Coach Elliot also subbed in for the missing Nick.
8th grade hits low point in latest loss
CYO instituted a new rule this season, which stated that at any time in the 4th quarter, if a team led by 25 points or more, the clock would not stop.
The 8th grade boys became the first of any St. Mary's team to experience that as their season may have hit a new low in another blowout loss, this time their score doubled 48-24.
At one point in the 3rd quarter during a timeout, one of their four coaches, Tiffy, clearly heard in the entire gym, asked the team if they "wanted to play."
They replied yes, but their body language, execution and effort all begged to differ.
They were slow to every loose ball, awful getting back on defense and had no regard for taking care of the basketball.
To their defense, they were playing without Brendan and Brandon Khuu, both who will most likely be out the remainder of the season with lower body injuries.
Christian, who has not practiced with the team all season, or played a single game in about a year, dressed as the fifth player and was thrown into action and scored 2 points in his debut.
As expected, he was a little rusty and took some time to adjust to the right positions on the court.
But their problems go far more deeper than having a new player midway through the season.
From top to bottom, something is just not right.
For a team so talented, they aren't clicking and at the halfway point in the season, they look completely out of it.
Shoulders slumped, feet dragging, uninspired chants in the huddle, it seems like there are players who don't want to even be there.
One player who does is Justin, who scored 15 points in defeat, but because of his limited size, it's hard for him to take on a team all by himself.
Aside from all the basketball deficiencies such as not moving your feet on defense or boxing out, their team chemistry is probably the one thing that hurts them the most.
There's no positive energy from players on the court and no communication.
In their last game, Justin was blind-sided by a screen because nobody on the team called out a screen. Again on Sunday, screens were set by the other team and not one player called it out.
After free throws, players don't slap high fives, and instead just blankly stare into the abyss, waiting for the clock to tick down.
And if this trend continues, the clock will continue to tick when the 4th quarter comes around.
The 8th grade boys became the first of any St. Mary's team to experience that as their season may have hit a new low in another blowout loss, this time their score doubled 48-24.
At one point in the 3rd quarter during a timeout, one of their four coaches, Tiffy, clearly heard in the entire gym, asked the team if they "wanted to play."
They replied yes, but their body language, execution and effort all begged to differ.
They were slow to every loose ball, awful getting back on defense and had no regard for taking care of the basketball.
To their defense, they were playing without Brendan and Brandon Khuu, both who will most likely be out the remainder of the season with lower body injuries.
Christian, who has not practiced with the team all season, or played a single game in about a year, dressed as the fifth player and was thrown into action and scored 2 points in his debut.
As expected, he was a little rusty and took some time to adjust to the right positions on the court.
But their problems go far more deeper than having a new player midway through the season.
From top to bottom, something is just not right.
For a team so talented, they aren't clicking and at the halfway point in the season, they look completely out of it.
Shoulders slumped, feet dragging, uninspired chants in the huddle, it seems like there are players who don't want to even be there.
One player who does is Justin, who scored 15 points in defeat, but because of his limited size, it's hard for him to take on a team all by himself.
Aside from all the basketball deficiencies such as not moving your feet on defense or boxing out, their team chemistry is probably the one thing that hurts them the most.
There's no positive energy from players on the court and no communication.
In their last game, Justin was blind-sided by a screen because nobody on the team called out a screen. Again on Sunday, screens were set by the other team and not one player called it out.
After free throws, players don't slap high fives, and instead just blankly stare into the abyss, waiting for the clock to tick down.
And if this trend continues, the clock will continue to tick when the 4th quarter comes around.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
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