Northern’s basketball bantams get medieval
[attach]1245[/attach]Northern Red Knights are building for the future.
After a 42-19 ousting of Central Tech Blues in bantam boys basketball Jan. 22, co-coach Michael Chapman said he is optimistic about the school’s prospects in South Region play.
“The boys are growing and gelling very good together,” he said. “We’re trying to build a program with rounded discipline: all around school work, conduct in the hallways and on the court.
“Good growth for young men.”
Initially over-powering the Blues 24-3 after two quarters of hardcourt action, it was the offensive awareness of Omar Blackford and Corey Astley-Brown that Northern co-coach Shane Miller gave nods to.
Covering the floor proved difficult for Central Tech as they failed to find their groove, coach Richard Barrow said.
“Right now we’re a little too emotional, and we allow our emotions to get the better of us,” he said. “When we can settle down a little bit and concentrate and we don’t allow for outside distractions, we will be able to have a nice, successful season.”
Still, the outlook was not all blue for Central Tech as they were able to unite for a small comeback.
“During our halftime talk I spoke to them about having to ignore all of the other issues that were occurring,” he said. “Sometimes in life you are dealt a hand of cards that is not favourable.
“Are you going to lie down or are you going to find that other gear, dig deep and persevere.”
Unfurling a strong offense in the fourth, Obid Noori led the Blues charge with four points, while fellow teammates Samuel Francis and Chevann Brown contributed.
Though Barrow declined to highlight the play of any one player, he said his bench stepped up when the starters failed to connect.
“They were able to battle back and they were able to show toughness when my first team was feeling a little discouraged,” he said.
With the victory Northern is 3-0, and Miller anticipates a lengthy Red Knights season.
“We’re looking forward to the rest of the season,” he said. “Obviously we’re really coming together.
“We’re starting to show signs of being a championship team. That’s our goal.”
Next on the schedule for Northern is University of Toronto Schools Feb. 5.