Basketball Extravaganza: YISS Staff vs. Varsity Boys
On Saturday afternoon of November 9, the YISS campus buzzed with excitement as the much-anticipated Basketball Extravaganza unfolded. This annual event brought together two exciting, competitive games as the YISS Dad's Club took on the Junior Varsity Boys Basketball team, followed by the YISS Staff and the Varsity Boys Basketball team. The games truly showcased the community’s athleticism, teamwork, and school spirit! Organized by the PTO Dads’ Club in partnership with the YISS boys basketball teams, the Basketball Extravaganza drew a large crowd of students, faculty, and families to enjoy an afternoon of thrilling basketball action and cheerleading performances.
The game was a back-and-forth battle from the very start. The YISS Staff team, which included experienced teachers and members of staff such as Jesse Beam, Brandon Trevino, Levi Miller, Jim Milliken, Adam Miller, John Sampan, Ryan Roper, Jae Hwang, James Shin, Kelvin Benger, and Nathan Bingaman, exhibited excellent teamwork and strategic play. Their years of experience and leadership on the court gave them an edge, as they worked together to counter the varsity team’s youth and speed.
On the other hand, the varsity boys basketball team, coached by Tim Baker and James Lynch, brought a burst of energy, speed, and raw talent. Players like Joseph T. (12), Andy L. (11), Tyler P. (11), Sky J. (11), David J. (11), Dylan L. (11), Keado F. (11), Andrew L. (11), Ashu P. (11), Isaac S. (10), Ian L. (10), and Jamie P. (10) used their quickness, agility, and sharp shooting to keep the game exciting and competitive. The varsity team capitalized on fast breaks and perimeter shots, pushing the staff team to stay focused.
As the game progressed, the varsity team made several attempts to close the gap, but the staff team managed to maintain a steady six-point lead. The final minutes were a nail-biter, with the varsity team fighting hard to catch up. However, the staff’s experience under pressure ultimately secured their victory. Though the varsity team fell short this time, they displayed impressive talent and promise for the upcoming season.
Coach Tim Baker shared his thoughts after the game, saying, “This event is a great way for our team to kick off the season. It’s always exciting to play against the staff, and this game really helps us build chemistry and momentum as we prepare for the more competitive matchups ahead.”
The excitement wasn't only on the court. The ASA Cheerleaders, led by coaches Melanie Roberts and Desirae Schroeder, provided high-energy support to hype up the crowd. The cheerleaders, including Yui K. (4), Allyn T. (4), Chloe K. (4), Esther C. (4), Claire P. (4), Chloe L. (4), Sophia W. (4), Claire H. (5), Chloe K. (5), Anna S. (5), Serah Y. (5), Hannah J. (5), Jasmin L. (5), Naye H. (5), and Avelynn K. (5), performed spirited routines and chants that encouraged fans to cheer louder for their teams.
As the game concluded, the YISS Staff celebrated their victory, but the real winner was the entire YISS community. The Basketball Extravaganza not only showed the talent and camaraderie of both teams, but it also highlighted the importance of school spirit and teamwork. For the varsity boys basketball team, this game marked a successful and exciting start to their season, providing a valuable opportunity to build chemistry and gain experience ahead of their more competitive matchups.
Looking forward, the varsity team is ready for the challenges that lie ahead, and the YISS community is excited to continue supporting them throughout the season. Go, YISS!