The weekend of May 16-17, 2009, the CAVS 10U won the division championship at the Swoosh Santa Clarita Tournament. The 10U were down a few players for the weekend, but that did not stop them from their usual fight.

The weekend’s first game against Triple Threat started off slowly and with little energy. At halftime we were up 11-2. The second half started off with a little bit more energy and a balanced attack on the offensive end of the court. However, the defense gave up some plays to let Triple Threat back in the game. We would have to play better to win a championship. Final score CAVS 21, Triple Threat 16.

Game two was against the Burbank Raptors, a very physical team. However, the CAVS were definitely up for the challenge. Just like the second half of the game against Triple Threat, there was good balance offensively for The CAVS where everyone contributed… the difference would be their defense. Guard play was exceptional as they continuously pressured the Raptors guards and limiting them to tough looks at the basket. The help defense was equally effective often limiting any missed attempts to one and done. Final score, CAVS 41, Burbank Raptors 30.

On Sunday, we would face the Raptors again… but this time for the championship. The mission as always was to play hard and the rest would take care of itself. The game started a little flat by both teams as no one could seem to find their rhythm offensively. However, the CAVS played stingy defense which led to a halftime score of CAVS 16, Raptors 8. During the second half, the CAVS went to work on the offensive end putting up 22 points. This young team executed in half-court sets and forced turnovers with great defense that lead to fast break opportunities. The Raptors struggled to keep pace with the guards and just could not handle our inside play from the bigs. This turned out to be a very exciting game. Fans and parents alike could feel the energy. The final score was CAVS 38, Raptors 20.

Way to go CAVS. You continue to establish a level of play that often can not be matched. Continued success as you head to Reno… the fight continues!