Improved Performance in a Tough Loss to Kings

Hi All,
Stats from U16 Regionals game vs Manchester Kings Purple.
11.02.2024

Team scoring:
Q1 Preston 8. Kings 17.
Q2 Preston 4. Kings 21.

HT Preston 12. Kings 38.

Q3 Preston 6. Kings 22.
Q4 Preston 8. Kings 15.

FULL TIME.
Preston 26 - 75 Kings

INDIVIDUAL STATS
JAMES 12pts
BENJI 4pts
TOBIAS 4pts
BENJAMIN 2pts
FIN 2pts
LUKE 2pts

Player of the Game:
WILL

Match Report:
Preston hosted a very strong Manchester Kings team at Newman College. The previous game against Kings Purple suffered a heavy loss by a 66 point margin. Preston looked to better this result in the second match-up of the season.
The first quarter had intense full-court pressure from Kings. Preston moved the ball well to break this press repeatedly and had numerous fast-break opportunities throughout the first and second quarter. Some early scoring from James gave a good start to Preston against a high scoring and athletic opposition.
The second quarter saw Preston give up a large number of rebounds and second chance points to Kings which opened out the scoring gap. Good offensive play from Preston players including Benjamin and Will produced only limited points by halftime.
Third quarter had high pressure defense in the half court from Kings, forcing turnovers from Preston that the opposition converted into fast break points. Some adjustments opened Preston out to more opportunistic offense but with limited return on the scoreboard against intense defenders.
The fourth quarter saw a few scoring runs for the opposition but with Preston delivering their best defensive quarter of the game. The final minutes of the game were finished with intense and spirited play from Preston to work the Kings until the final buzzer.

Despite the loss, a much improved performance by Preston against a very strong Manchester side. The final score had reduced the scoring margin by 17 points from the previous match-up. Preston players performed well in targeted areas of offense and defense against a top team.

Player of the Game goes to Will for disciplined and tenacious defense against talented opponents, repeatedly shutting down skillful players and forcing a shot elsewhere. Attacking the basket bravely and making smart decisions with the ball in his hands.

Cheers and Well Done.
Coach Andy