Basketball: Mid-Season 2016-2017

January 15, 2017

As of now, our record is 3-5. This is my second year playing, so I am still easing into the game. I'm constantly turning over the ball because when the ball is thrown to me, I panic and throw the ball somewhere, sometimes in the hands of the opposing team. This happens especially when we do the 1-3-1 defense and I am playing on the wing. I think I should go into my triple threat more often so that the other team won't be able to trap me and steal the ball whenever Makeila, our point guard, passes to me. However, I've learned that having me play down low (ironically, I am five feet tall standing behind girls taller than 5'10") works well for our offense. Often times, I get down low quickly during the fast breaks and make the layup.

Defensively, I think I have done well. Since I am short, it is easier to watch the hips of other guards who also move quickly. My strides may not be large, but they are very quick and easily switch directions. I am especially useful when we do a box-and-one defense, which we use when the other team's offense is revolved around one player. With my playing man on her, she is taken out from their offense, forcing the team to work among the four of them. Moreover, I am able to get steals playing up top on defense. Overall, on a fundamental level I've been able to learn about the strategies and teamwork that work and don't, especially with having me on the court given my strengths and weaknesses.

Game against Newcomers:

Being co-captain initially felt a bit intimidating, as I feel that junior co-captains are rare and I am working with a senior co-captain. I had to start our warm up drills and stretches. But surprisingly, it almost felt intuitive because of my experience on the softball team for the prior two years, where almost all the seniors and juniors displayed leadership that I was able to mirror in basketball. I projected my voice out loud, directing players to areas around the court. While I may still be learning fundamental skills, I continue to build my confidence and leadership throughout the season.

From left to right: Jennifer (me, small forward), Makeila (co-captain, point guard), Kacey (center)