The newest edition of the Best of the West -- the annual senior boys basketball game between Sentinel and West Van -- proved difficult to swallow for the traveling Spartan supporters. After what was described as a “lackluster start to the game” by forward Raihaan Lalani, the Spartans chances failed to materialize as West Van built up an insurmountable lead.
Despite the great encouragement by the Spartan faithful, Sentinel never quite found their grip and ended up being blown out by the mighty Highlanders: 109-39. Playing for the first time in front of a large crowd, many of the players exemplified tremendous Spartan spirit putting their grit and determination on full display.
Spectators from Sentinel who attended the away game noted that the West Van fan student section was “louder and more enthusiastic” as the attendance of roughly 300 people was heavily in favour of the Highlanders. However, point guard Hakeem Shivji notes that the Spartans attendance was still “mind-boggling” and that “it was an honour playing in front of them.”
The players are now looking towards the Quadruple A division playoffs with their eyes on the banner. These were the exact thoughts of Raihaan Lalani who believes that now more than ever, it is time for the team to “give a good effort, stick together and put up a good fight for the playoffs”. For now, Sentinel will have to settle for Second Best in the West, but perhaps next season, the mighty Spartans will prevail.
Comments