Recap
The new CBL season kicked off with Gintaras U12’s taking on London United in a highly anticipated match up between 2 of the stronger U12 development programs across London.
It was Gintaras who jumped out to the fast start, behind a well-balanced attack that saw all 5 of the ‘Lithuanian Express’ starters get on the score sheet to put Gintaras up 11-3 after the first quarter. However, United’s star player Josh Payne entered the game after a late arrival and proceeded to get right down to business, scoring 8 straight points for United on a number of athletic drives to the basket.
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However, good ball movement and attention to detail from the well-drilled East Londoner’s proved too much for Payne and his West London teammates to overcome as Gintaras ran out 10 point winners, to a score of 37-27.
Gintaras game MVP was awarded to Simas Konzeliauskas for his effort on both ends of the floor, concentration in executing his coaches instructions while also still finding time to score when needed. We caught up with Simas after the game:
CBL: What were the keys to Gintaras pulling away for the win today?
Simas: The keys to our victory were good defense and passing and listening to our coach at all times.
CBL: How do you feel you played and what areas do you feel your team needs to work on to continue to be successful this season in the CBL?
Simas: I played for my team as usual but I always want to play better. For the team, we just want to listen to the coach and get better each game so we can win.
CBL: Who is your favourite player in the NBA and why?
Simas: My favourite player is Steph Curry because he shoots a lot of three’s and he is small like me!
A great start to the new campaign for the ‘Lithuanian Express’. Gintaras remain one of the best supported teams in the league as they continue to provide basketball outlets for all ages throughout East London.
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