I just wanted to update my friends on our basketball season since several of you have provided financial support for our teams to be able to attend things like the National Tournament in Springfield, Mo. We just finished our conference tournament at MTSU this past weekend.
First our 12 girls team was in the championship game on Saturday. Almost all of these girls are playing in their first year of basketball. The team they played had beaten them really bad in 2 previous games. They lead the entire game and worked SO hard until 2 of the starters fouled out. The other players came in and fought as well but they ended up losing by 8 points. They learned a lot in that game and will now head to regionals this weekend where they are seeded 3rd.

Our 14 U team has been amazing this year! They are 19-1 for the season and came into the conference tournament undefeated. They play public school, private school, and homeschool teams They didn’t disappoint but won the championship game by 9 points. Now on to the regional tournament where they are seeded number 2. The opposing coach mentioned after the game that we just had too many weapons that they couldn’t stop them all.

Our 18 U team faced an opponent in which we had split games, we each won at home. It was a battle to the very end. We were down most of the game until one of our guards hit a 40’ 3 pointer that sealed the game. I could not be more proud of their determination and perseverance. This is a very young team with only 1 senior. They are now headed to regionals where they are seeded number 2.

So we came home with 2 championship banners and one team as runners up. The future for the TN Heat girls basketball program seems very bright.

We also had two 10 U ten teams and a developmental program for even younger players. We have a 10 U team that will be playing in the national tournament as well.

But here is the greatest part of all of this. First of all the teams we played are full of competitive yet kind players. They help each other up when they fall and play clean games. It is not unusual after games to see players from opposing teams talking and hugging each other. Also, the coaches are very good that we compete against and are full of integrity. They handle themselves well during games without screaming and demeaning their players and they are also very kind and gracious following games. It is a pleasure to get to play with such amazing people.

And finally to see the players gather on their own to pray on the court together before the game starts and then to huddle and pray and thank God after the game is over regardless if they win or lose. Just an amazing group of girls!

Pray for us as we we head to regionals and then to nationals. Blessings!