Junior High Boys Basketball A-Team Downs A-C Valley (02/21/14)

(By Coach Jesse Quinn)

On Wednesday, February 19th, the Clarion Area Jr. High Boys A-Team racked up its 8th win of the season, defeating the A-C Valley Falcons 44-20. Looking at the final score, you would think it was a convincing win from the start. That was not the case. We had our slowest start to a game this year, only scoring 8 points in the first quarter. The boys did a fine job on defense, limiting the Falcons to just 5 points in the first quarter, however, we were quick to turn the ball over after getting a steal or rebound.

The second quarter the boys picked up the offense a little, scoring 10 points in the frame.  The defense was again solid, as the Falcons were held to 6 points, to take us into the half up 18-11.

The second half is where the boys really shined and looked like the team they have been in previous games. The defense was solid as we tightened things up, creating several turnovers and turning them into quick points. What is most impressive about them is their concept of TEAM. Jimmy Smathers makes a nice steal down low on the “D” and quickly outlets to Spencer Miller, who lays the ball in on the other end. It doesn’t matter to these boys, who gets the score as long as the points are put up, on the score board.

Jimmy Smathers on the opening tip

The boys were able to put 13 points on the board in each quarter of the second half, while at the same time limiting ACV to only 9 points… the entire half.

Leading the way in the score book was Christian Smith with 14 points.  Spencer Miller was a close second, putting in 11 of his own. Jimmy Smathers added 6, while Cam Craig dropped in 5.  Zach Bauer and Cam Hearst each had 3 points.  All three of Zach’s points came by way of the foul line, where on the year Zach is an impressive 10 of 13. That is 77%!  Nice job Zach! Also doing an outstanding job from the stripe is Cam Craig. According to the book he is 13 of 17 for 76%!  Austin Hummell and Nick Cherico put in two respectfully.

Spencer Miller has done a fine job, as others have on defense, but especially since he had missed a few games when he was in Florida. Spencer said that his grandmother wouldn’t mind if the team came down for a visit… so we may hold him to that if we get any more snow!

We talk so much about the reasons we are here as a team, in every practice and after every game. The boys do a wonderful job of being serious and taking care of the task at hand, but also remembering not to take it SO seriously that it removes the fun of the game.

Christian Smith applying tight D

The next contest will be at Moniteau Friday, February 21st, when we take on the  Warriors. Game time is set for 3:30 with both teams playing at the same time.

(Thanks to Coach Quinn for this article and keep up the good work guys!!!!)