During the month of May, the CAVS 9U and some of the younger developmental players participated in the California Heat Spring League. The CAVS finished 4 – 0 during league play and racked up convincing wins by 20 or more points. The playoffs began on Saturday, June 13th with the CAVS earning the #1 seed. The CAVS would face the California Heat during the first playoff game. The game was quick paced and guards Khari Osborne-Roddy and Jalen Bolden used their quickness to keep up with the Heat guards. Mike Irving, Cyrus Eslamieh and newcomer Austin were the big men in the post controlling the boards. Khari led the CAVS in scoring and the CAVS battled to a 14 – 10 lead at halftime. In the second half, the CAVS defense would stifle the Heat offense. The CAVS pressure defense forced multiple turnovers and held the Heat to only 6 points in the second half. Jalen and Cyrus both scored on free throws as they drove to the opponent’s basket. The CAVS cruised to a 32 – 16 victory.

The only thing standing between the CAVS and a championship was the Warriors. The Warriors White team only suffered one loss during league play and it was against the CAVS. The Warriors were looking for revenge. The CAVS started slowly against the Warriors. Kyle Fisher scored on some outside shots early in the game. The teams exchanged baskets most of the half and at halftime the teams were tied 9 – 9. In the second half, the veterans of the 9U squad took over. Mike Irving made his presence felt down low. Although he only scored one basket down low, the Warriors were forced to foul him and send him to the free throw line. The point guard, Jalen, handled the Warriors pressure well. Hunter Barry and Kyle all scored baskets in the second half. It was the outstanding play of Khari that sealed the victory for the CAVS. Khari finished a 3 point play to give the CAVS a lead of 24 – 21. After not being able to score during their possession, the Heat were forced to foul the CAVS. The CAVS sank their free throws and went on to win 26 – 21.

It was a great effort by the CAVS 9U! Congratulations.