St Bede’s 9A Basketball took on Rangiora A in their final at Rangiora.

St Bede’s had lost to their opponents earlier in the season, so this was a tough task, especially away from home.

The final was a pulsating affair, with the lead swinging backwards and forwards for much of the game. Each team traded baskets and with 8 minutes still to play, Rangiora had opened a 6-point lead after some devastating 3 point shooting. St Bede’s then went to work and found new energy, moving up a couple of gears. In 5-minutes, St Bede’s scored 14 unanswered points to effectively seal the win with 3 minutes left to play.  Despite an amazing all round team effort,team captain Kurt Mepana in particular, drove hard to the basket and displayed his skills magnificently.

The final score was St Bede’s 52, Rangiora 37. This win was achieved by a great work ethic, belief and an improving skill set. The boys showed great character and resilience in fighting back. The win was all the more enjoyable as the team had lost their first four games of the season. The 9A’s remained unbeaten in their last nine games and deserve great credit.

9A’s squad

Back Row: Iwan Merchant- Williams, Kurt Mepana, Jackson Wright, Adam Findlay

Middle Row: Will Penney, Jaden Houghton, Roan Brown, Andre Robinson

Front Row: Sam Gray, Dylan MacDonald, Cydrick Lido

[Absent from final photo, Jacob Dunn.  Coached by Dai Williams.]