by Jake C.

White team basketball is known for improving players as skilled athletes and teaching teams to play more cohesively. Many white team basketball players have been promoted to higher teams due to their development as players. I had the chance to interview a couple of players from the 7th-grade white team about their first season.

Fellow Mule Time Media member Nathan Chapman had a great season this year on the white team after not playing basketball for a long time. “My teammates really helped me out this year after not playing basketball in around eight years. I really enjoy spending time and practicing with them.” One of Nathan’s favorite parts of the year was spending time with his teammates.

There were some unexpected improvements this year. “I got way better at shooting this year, and I wasn’t really expecting that.” But Nathan wasn’t the only one who improved their offensive skills. “Each week the scoring has gotten higher in the games,” Nathan stated. He also explained that the team gained more confidence in shooting as the season progressed.

Coach Stevens played a key role in improving the players’ game skills. “Coach Stevens taught me how to be better with my left hand and dribbling while running down the court,” Nathan said. Nathan’s teammate Harris Meabon also credited the coach’s practices for his progress. “I got better at dribbling under pressure, which helped me in the game.”

Harris Meabon, one of the leaders of the 7th-grade white team, enjoys teaching his teammates. “I enjoy teaching players that don’t know that much about basketball, and this season I got to teach athletic kids that don’t have very much,” he explained.

Harris believes that games provide significant benefits to players. “I think games improve you more. You get more action with the ball, and you gain more confidence,” Harris said. He also praised how well the school runs the white team games, describing the atmosphere as welcoming and encouraging.

These two players have thoroughly enjoyed their first season of white team basketball and have made remarkable improvements in a short time. Their perspectives highlight the positive impact this season has had on them. White team sports continue to help players develop and succeed in their passions.