Rising Above: Thunderbirds Soar to Provincial Glory in Junior Girls Basketball Championship
Amidst the gleaming lights of Surrey’s Pacific Academy, the hardwood court became a stage for the province’s elite junior girls basketball teams during the thrilling tournament held from February 23rd to 25th. Among the contenders stood the indomitable Thunderbirds, reigning champions of the Surrey city championship and the South Fraser championships leading up to the grand showdown.
Coach Tayla Jackson and Simrit Bindra, the masterminds behind the Thunderbirds’ strategy, beamed with pride at the team’s seamless performance. Bindra reminisced on the season’s journey, highlighting the squad’s resilience in the face of adversity, notably their lone defeat against GW Graham, the very team they conquered in a heart-pounding final that culminated in a triumphant 60-48 victory.
As the game unfolded, GW Graham surged ahead, momentarily casting doubt on the Thunderbirds’ fate. Yet, true to their name, the Thunderbirds soared, reclaiming the lead in the fourth quarter and steadfastly defending it until the final buzzer echoed through the arena.
Individual excellence illuminated the court as Jaida Claypool was crowned MVP of the Tournament, while Mya Thompson seized the coveted Player of the Final Game accolade. Sonum Sran’s stellar performance earned her the distinction of First Team All-Star, while Savanna Wong secured a well-deserved spot on the Second Team All-Star roster.
Beyond the championship clash, the tournament showcased the depth of talent across the province, with Holy Cross clinching 3rd place, followed by Argyle, OKM, MEI, Westsyde, Oak Bay, SMUS, and Jaffray rounding out the top ten in a display of fierce competition and unwavering sportsmanship.
Leave a Reply