04/29/2024
Well, I've been to so many basketball tournaments that I don't even care to know the actual number, but I have NEVER witnessed anything like I did this weekend. This group of young men found places within their soul they didn't know existed to pull off a show we (and they) will not soon forget.
We came into Saturday knowing there was a possibility of playing 5 games... in one day. We knew the competition would be tough, but they just went one game at a time. After 12 hours, 3 ankle injuries, 1 back injury, 1 knee, 1 thigh and a migraine.. they pulled off a 5-0 day. I've never seen anything like that. They were running on fumes, grit and determination--- but because their will was stronger than their pain and exhaustion, they left the gym at 9:30 pm undefeated. Unbelievable. They won their first game today to make it to the championship (out of a 36 team bracket, might I add 😳). Championship game was an epic battle, but our tank was on E and lost by 3. With a final overall record of 6-1 for the weekend. 7 total games in 2 days... still trying to process that.
They are raising eyebrows in the MN/ND basketball circuit, and I have to admit, it's kinda fun having so many people pulling me aside asking where we are from, usually followed by a comment on how fun the boys are to watch, how tough they play and how unselfish they are. So very, very proud of them all!! 🏀❤️
