Basketball teams nab trophies in Shanghai tournaments
The SMIC-I Sharks basketball teams started the year off right with three trophies – third place for the JV Girls, third place for the Varsity Girls, and second place for the JV Boys. On January 20th, all four basketball teams departed SMIC School to SAS and Concordia to compete in the tournaments.
On Saturday, our Lady Sharks played a taxing schedule against BISS Puxi, then Concordia, and then Dulwich for their final game. The Varsity Girls team fought valiantly and put in their 100% effort against daunting odds. “Overall we did pretty well,” said Sophie Chao (11C). “We had to play three games in a day but we never gave up; we fought hard and kept our spirits high.” Jessie Wu (10B) attributed their success to their grueling practices. “I feel like we did pretty well and it was definitely a result of all the hard work we put into practice. I’m proud of how hard we played during the tournament, and everyone’s work ethic and passion for the sport was really [motivating to] me to run faster and try to screen with my skinny self.”
The JV Boys team traveled a much shorter distance to Concordia, facing off against SCIS HongQiao, SAS, and then Concordia in the final. A balanced effort from all members of the team led to the JV Boys’ success. “Overall, the team had a great performance,” commented Oscar Su (9B). “Everyone was able to contribute to the game.” Like the Varsity Girls, the JV Boys powered through on their grit and hustle. “It wasn’t 1st place but we worked hard and we deserved it,” remarked Brendan Wang (10B). “Our team did an incredible job supporting each other and that played a key role in us taking the W.”
The JV Girls traveled to Concordia alongside the JV Boys, challenging SLAS, Dulwich, and SAS in the final game. Although they had a few new players, the JV Girls had a successful season. “We had a mix of new and returning players and we all really put in [the] effort this season,” said Angela Tan (10A). “We bonded and the teamwork was amazing as we were able to apply the things we learned in practices into real games.”
Players from all teams are optimistic about the upcoming season and pumped for next year’s basketball season.
“I think next year will be just as fun and just as intense as this year,” Jessie said. “And we’ll definitely stay focused until the end.”
Angela also shared her optimistic outlook for the next season, saying, “We had some really strong players and really good coaches, so I think next year we’ll do as well as we did this year. If we keep up the spirit, dedication, and teamwork we had this time, I don’t doubt that we’ll go far lengths.”
Featured Image – Coach Martinez and the starting five celebrate win Courtesy of Sophie Chao (11C)