The KVR Express Grade 8 boys basketball team made school history by winning its first South Zone championship at home over the weekend.
The Express achieved the feat with three convincing wins, the final being 67-37 against the Similkameen Elementary Secondary School Sparks. It was a matchup that Express coach Blair Haddrell expected from the start of the season as the Sparks were strong and talented. The Express started with a 14-0 start, which was cut to 18-11, then became 51-29.
“It was a dominating team defensive performance throughout the weekend as we applied tough ball pressure with active help defence,“ said Haddrell.
The Express opened the championship with a 57-24 win over the McNicoll Park Dragons, then in the semifinal they cruised past Holy Cross 78-16.
Jacob Oh earned most valuable player honours for his strong defensive play shutting down the opposition.
“Jacob is our Mr. Everything as he can guard in the post or be a point guard, and comes up with big baskets for our team,” said Haddrell. “Once he gains more confidence in his ability he can become a very good basketball player.”
Making the all-star team were Easton Olsen, Daniel Martin and Donald Ross Millar, while the KVR season All Star went to Chase Davies. Grade 8 Provincials are March 5-7 in Pitt Meadows.
