So the moment of truth has come. In Public School Girls High School basketball, we have O'Connor vs Schertz Clemens and Brennan vs Wagner tonight at UTSA in a double header.
Is this a surprise to anyone? The teams have been playing the best basketball all season especially down the stretch (last 2 months) and are in position to advance to the coveted Final 4, here in their own hometown.
Clemens has gone 14-2 since December 9, 2014. That is well over 2 months of playing basketball. And by the way, Clemens only losses have come to Wagner.
Wagner has gone 16-1 since mid December and have only one loss to the hands of Euless Trinity.
Brennan has gone 14-2 since mid December, with their only two losses to O'Connor.
O'Connor has gone 19-0 since early December and has not lost to any team in the Alamo City all season long.
Down the stretch, it was evident by their play that these 4 teams were going to rise to the top come playoff time.
You have 4 capable strong teams coming out on top, each with their own distinct way of playing the game.
O'Connor has to be the most underrated team in quite some time. They have quietly and efficiently been taking care of their opponents. Big Challenge in front of them tonight, no doubt. Clemens, of all the teams remaining, rely more on one player to get them going not just offensively but defensively as well. Thats a huge load to carry on ones shoulders. But if there is anyone that can do it, its Kyra Lambert. On O'Connor side of things, they have the players, guards Amber Vidal, Victoria Pena, Kasey Saldana, that can create havoc on defense and put up points on the offensive side. Team ball is their game. Moving the ball on offense is key.
COMPOSURE might play a pivotal part on the games outcome. It is a long game, which team is going to stay consistent the longest?
Brennan has been the deepest team inside and out all year long. They are going to need to utilize their overall team play to offset Wagner's Amber Ramirez amazing scoring spree. Wagner has more weapons like guard Kianna Williams that can turn out to be the difference. It's interesting how this plays out. Can Brennan control the boards on both sides of the court and can their guards play aggressive and hit outside shots? One advantage Brennan has, if one player is struggling, plenty of other players are capable of having huge nights. For Wagner, Amber Ramirez needs to do what Amber does, score.
And the beauty of all this, if all 4 teams played again tomorrow, totally different outcomes might occur. It's that wide open. Anything can happen. Anyone can step up. Nothing is set in stone!
In private School action, both Antonian and Incarnate Word go to College Station this weekend with high hopes to get to the Final 4 after it's all said and done.
Anonian Prep has gone an amazing 18-2 since early December. It's only two losses have come to the hands of Incarnate Word.
Incarnate Word has gone 12-2 since late December with one loss to Manvel, defending State Champ in highest classification from last year. They have an outside chance of getting to the State Finals because of stingy overall team defense and offense led by PG Alexia Torres and freshman Sophia Ramos. Add scorers Analisa Narro and Jenna Villarreal with feisty guards that can score as well in Brooke Orme and Analisa Hebert, the team has a fighters chance to do well.
Antonian is as deep as any team in the city. They have a talented shooting team with plenty of players in their roster that can hit it from down town. They also have a very stingy defense that can pose problems with teams that are not familiar with their style or that don't have many ball handlers.
Is it any surprise that all above 6 mentioned teams are still alive? They have been playing some good basketball especially down the stretch.
At this point you don't need Rankings to bolster how good your team is, you team just needs to Win!
Don't blame the refs, don't blame the ball, don't blame one play.
Make your layups, make your free throws, take care of the ball, take good shots, control the boards etc..
On the hand........ sometimes, just sometimes, its just better to be lucky than good!
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL!!!!
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Thursday, February 12, 2015
TOP 10 TEAMS HIGH SCHOOL SA GIRLS BASKETBALL 2-12-15
The regular season for HS GBB is over and now let the real games commence.
In the end, Reagan and Smithson Valley didn't have enough to get in the playoffs. Perennial powers like Stevens and Jay are also out. I thought MacArthur was going to make some noise in District. They showed promise in early in non district but nothing materialized when it mattered.
Southwest seemed to be struggling in Non District play to only get some momentum in District play especially with a big win over CC Carroll.
That being said, Southwest vs Brandeis should be interesting to see how it unfolds. Southwest likes to run, press and shoot the long ball. Brandeis has some good Posts and strong PG play
Clemens vs Churchill matchup should be intriguing. Two senior guards going at it and giving it their all should make it a fun game to go watch.
Roosevelt is the only team in the big schools in San Antonio that I haven't seen personally. But I know they can provide a scare to Wagner in the right scenarios. Wagner's lack of depth was exposed early in the season especially because of injuries. Wagner has plenty of momentum going into the playoffs. They will be hard team to stop.
Clark vs Carroll. Is this the game Clark comes to play like they are capable of playing on paper? If they don't, there will be a lot of what ifs in their season as they go home for good. They have as much chance of any team in San Antonio to beat Carroll with their depth.
Brennan vs CC Ray. Brennan has a lot of options and is deep. Ray has potential to stay close but depend too much on two players for their consistent scoring. Ray would need kids to step up across the board to try and pull it off. Brennan just needs to do what they do best, nothing fancy.
Johnson vs Judson. I have seen Johnson when they are rolling and I've seen them when they struggle. They have weapons that can match them up with about any team in the City. But first things first, they need to take care of Judson. Judson needs to make this an ugly game to pull it off.
Madison vs Steele. Madison has had a great season overall. They definitely have shooters. Madison PG can make things go on both ends. Steele is at their best when they play with intensity on the defensive end creating easy buckets. This is a toss up in my eyes if both teams bring their A game.
O'Connor vs East Central. O'Connor should just keep on doing what has worked all season. Team defense, great ball movement, trust in each other etc. O'Connor is the only team in the city that hasn't lost to any other team in the City. Of al the match ups in the first round, O'Connor should be the most heavy favorite to move on. They are sitting in a very good place in the overall Bracket.
In my Rankings, O'Connor biggest threat comes in their bracket is at the hands of a 6th seed or latter.
Whereas, the other Bracket has my #2, #3, #4, #5 teams duking it out to see who advances.
For my Rankings, I eliminated all teams that didn't make the playoffs. If a team lost to a non playoff team, then that loss was posted. Only wins against playoff teams were posted.
1. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Madison, Steele, Brennan (Twice), Brandeis, Clark. Losses-
2.Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Madison (Twice), Steele, Johnson, Brandeis, Clark. Losses- Reagan, O'Connor(Twice)
3. Wagner: Wins- Johnson, Brandeis, Schertz Clemens(Twice), Steele (Twice) Losses-Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Reagan
4. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (3 times), Stevens, IWHS, Brandeis, Churchill, Madison. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Brennan, Antonian, Churchill
5. Brandeis: Wins- Antonian, Clemens, Clark(Twice) Losses-Churchill, Johnson (3 Times), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison, Brennan, OConnor, Jay
6. Schetz Clemens: Wins-Steele( Twice), Roosevelt. Losses- Brandeis, Wagner(Twice)
7. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis, Stevens, IWHS, Churchill. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor, Johnson(Twice), Reagan, Roosevelt
8. Clark: Wins-Madison, Churchill. Losses- Brandeis (Twice), O'Connor, Brennan
9. Churchill: Wins- Brandeis, Roosevelt, Johnson. Losses- Clark(Twice), Antonian, Johnson, Madison, Roosevelt, Madison
10. Roosevelt: Wins- Churchill (Twice), Antonian, Madison. Losses Clemens, Churchill, Johnson, Smithson Valley, Reagan
Honorable Mention
Incarnate Word, Southwest, Steele
OK, Rankings are one thing, throw them out the window. Who is gonna bring it in the playoffs? That's all that matters now. Win and move on. Lose and go home.
Only 1 team is going to win 5 games to move on to State!
Will a team from Corpus steal the Glory. Only time will tell.
GO SUPPORT HS GIRLS BASKETBALL!!!!!!!
In the end, Reagan and Smithson Valley didn't have enough to get in the playoffs. Perennial powers like Stevens and Jay are also out. I thought MacArthur was going to make some noise in District. They showed promise in early in non district but nothing materialized when it mattered.
Southwest seemed to be struggling in Non District play to only get some momentum in District play especially with a big win over CC Carroll.
That being said, Southwest vs Brandeis should be interesting to see how it unfolds. Southwest likes to run, press and shoot the long ball. Brandeis has some good Posts and strong PG play
Clemens vs Churchill matchup should be intriguing. Two senior guards going at it and giving it their all should make it a fun game to go watch.
Roosevelt is the only team in the big schools in San Antonio that I haven't seen personally. But I know they can provide a scare to Wagner in the right scenarios. Wagner's lack of depth was exposed early in the season especially because of injuries. Wagner has plenty of momentum going into the playoffs. They will be hard team to stop.
Clark vs Carroll. Is this the game Clark comes to play like they are capable of playing on paper? If they don't, there will be a lot of what ifs in their season as they go home for good. They have as much chance of any team in San Antonio to beat Carroll with their depth.
Brennan vs CC Ray. Brennan has a lot of options and is deep. Ray has potential to stay close but depend too much on two players for their consistent scoring. Ray would need kids to step up across the board to try and pull it off. Brennan just needs to do what they do best, nothing fancy.
Johnson vs Judson. I have seen Johnson when they are rolling and I've seen them when they struggle. They have weapons that can match them up with about any team in the City. But first things first, they need to take care of Judson. Judson needs to make this an ugly game to pull it off.
Madison vs Steele. Madison has had a great season overall. They definitely have shooters. Madison PG can make things go on both ends. Steele is at their best when they play with intensity on the defensive end creating easy buckets. This is a toss up in my eyes if both teams bring their A game.
O'Connor vs East Central. O'Connor should just keep on doing what has worked all season. Team defense, great ball movement, trust in each other etc. O'Connor is the only team in the city that hasn't lost to any other team in the City. Of al the match ups in the first round, O'Connor should be the most heavy favorite to move on. They are sitting in a very good place in the overall Bracket.
In my Rankings, O'Connor biggest threat comes in their bracket is at the hands of a 6th seed or latter.
Whereas, the other Bracket has my #2, #3, #4, #5 teams duking it out to see who advances.
For my Rankings, I eliminated all teams that didn't make the playoffs. If a team lost to a non playoff team, then that loss was posted. Only wins against playoff teams were posted.
1. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Madison, Steele, Brennan (Twice), Brandeis, Clark. Losses-
2.Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Madison (Twice), Steele, Johnson, Brandeis, Clark. Losses- Reagan, O'Connor(Twice)
3. Wagner: Wins- Johnson, Brandeis, Schertz Clemens(Twice), Steele (Twice) Losses-Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Reagan
4. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (3 times), Stevens, IWHS, Brandeis, Churchill, Madison. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Brennan, Antonian, Churchill
5. Brandeis: Wins- Antonian, Clemens, Clark(Twice) Losses-Churchill, Johnson (3 Times), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison, Brennan, OConnor, Jay
6. Schetz Clemens: Wins-Steele( Twice), Roosevelt. Losses- Brandeis, Wagner(Twice)
7. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis, Stevens, IWHS, Churchill. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor, Johnson(Twice), Reagan, Roosevelt
9. Churchill: Wins- Brandeis, Roosevelt, Johnson. Losses- Clark(Twice), Antonian, Johnson, Madison, Roosevelt, Madison
10. Roosevelt: Wins- Churchill (Twice), Antonian, Madison. Losses Clemens, Churchill, Johnson, Smithson Valley, Reagan
Honorable Mention
Incarnate Word, Southwest, Steele
OK, Rankings are one thing, throw them out the window. Who is gonna bring it in the playoffs? That's all that matters now. Win and move on. Lose and go home.
Only 1 team is going to win 5 games to move on to State!
Will a team from Corpus steal the Glory. Only time will tell.
GO SUPPORT HS GIRLS BASKETBALL!!!!!!!
Thursday, January 29, 2015
TOP 10 TEAMS HIGH SCHOOL SA GIRLS BASKETBALL 1-29-15
Just like the Oscar's are upon us celebrating and awarding the Years Best Pictures and Best Actors/Actresses, so are the Girls Basketball HS Playoffs around the corner.
Teams are jockeying for positions and rankings. Players are putting on performances on the court, hoping it will be enough to be recognized at the end, when its all said and done.
Just like the Oscar's where you have a lot of Movie Pictures worthy of Best Movie, you also have a lot of teams worthy of being the best team in the City. But from witnessing last night's performance, one team has shot up as the favorite to win it all.
Last night, O"Connor beat Brennan with an effort worthy of Best Team Performance (Ensemble Cast)!
Maybe I am making too much of it, but the 5 starters had 11, 11, 11, 11 and 10 points Respectivelly! Pretty Amazing! Can you have any more team balance than that? Just the same defensively, O'Connor players seemed to have more sense of urgency hustling for loose balls and rebounds, tying up ball when other team got the rebound, poking the ball away from offensive players, deflecting passes and you get the Picture. It almost seems you can't take a break and get a moment rest against them. I mean this in a good way, the team is pesky and they can frustrate the heck out of you.
Offensively, they moved the ball well making 3, 4, 5 passes before someone shot. They have the mindset of flying across the court for fast break opportunities from steals or defensive rebounds. I've been saying it since early last year, don't underestimate their guard play.
But one game doesn't necessarily determine ones team fate if you still qualify for the Big Dance. Anything can happen once that starts.
Brennan is still going to be a tough out come playoff time. They have great size across the board, depth and guard play just to mention a few of their strong points. They beat a real good Clark team pretty handily just a few days ago.
Last night though belonged to O'Connor.
Saturday, O'Connor vs Clark 2pm Paul Taylor Gym
A lot of people including myself have been saying how good Clark is all season. This is a game Clark can make a statement they belong in the Best of the City category. For O'Connor, they can solidify their grip as the Best Team in the City with a win.
Looking ahead, One game Can definitely determine a team's fate though when it comes to making the playoffs.
Case in point, going down the Standings in each District, starting with District 25-6A, Smithson Valley needs to virtually win out to have a chance to make the playoffs. Judson is probably in with 1 more win unless SV does sweep, they need two wins in the last 3 games. Wagner and Clemens are in. Steele needs to win 2 out of 4 to safely assure their playoff spot.
In District 26-6A, Johnson and Madison are locks to make the playoffs. The last 2 spots are between Roosevelt, Churchill and Reagan. I feel the magic number 7 wins in District will be enough to get you in the playoffs in this district. That means Roosevelt needs a win from either Madison, Johnson or Churchill to go in. No easy task. Churchill needs to win 3 out of 4. Two of those games are against the bottom 2 teams in district. If they take care of business there, then they need to beat either Reagan or Roosevelt and Churchill is in. Reagan has the toughest road. I feel they have to beat Churchill for starters. Then they have to beat either Madison or Johnson and take care of MacArthur.
In District 27-6A, O'Connor, Brennan, Brandeis, Clark are almost locks. Other teams are mathematically still in it but it's just a matter of playing out the remaining games. Brennan, Clark and Brandeis are all tied for number 2 seed and will be fighting for positioning. It may not seem like much but number 4 seed gets CC Carroll in the first round.
In District 28-6A, Carroll, Southwest, CC Ray and East Central are locked in for the playoff spots. Southwest is playing much better now and may be peaking. East Central can be dangerous with their dynamic young center.
In the Large Private School side, Incarnate Word got a good win over Antonian and then followed that up by beating Private School State Ranked #10 St. Stephens in Austin. IWHS and Antonian should represent well once the playoff starts. Antonian is deep. IWHS is playing well on both ends of the court.
Who will eventually be the best in the City? Just like the Oscar's, is it going to be the favorite or is there going to be an upset.
Which team has the best players? Who has the best Coach? Who has the best supporting cast?
Following are my teams going down the RED CARPET to the playoffs, all contenders. Everyone take your seats, the Show will begin shortly.....
1. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Madison, Reagan, Steele, Brennan (Twice), Brandeis. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall, Amarillo
2.Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison (Twice), Reagan, Steele, Johnson, Brandeis, Clark. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore, Amarillo, O'Connor(Twice)
3. Wagner: Wins- Johnson, Steven, Brandeis, Schertz Clemens(Twice), Steele Losses-Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Argyle, Reagan, Cedar Ridge, Austin Westlake, Pflugerville
4. Schetz Clemens: Wins-Reagan, Steele, Roosevelt, Round Rock. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll, Liberty Christian, Brandeis, Wagner(Twice)
5. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill. Losses- Liberty Christian, Brandeis, Brennan
6. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (3 times), Stevens, Reagan, IWHS, Brandeis, Churchill, Madison. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Amarillo, Brennan, Antonian, Churchill
7. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis, Stevens, IWHS, Reagan, Churchill. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor, Johnson
8. Brandeis: Wins- Antonian, Clemens, Clark Losses-Churchill, Johnson (3 Times), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison, Brennan, OConnor
9. Roosevelt: Wins- Reagan, Churchill, Antonian. Losses Clemens, Churchill
Tied for 10th
Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele, Judson, Smithson Valley. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens, Johnson, O'Connor, Madison, Churchill, Roosevelt
Churchill: Wins- Brandeis, Roosevelt, Reagan, Johnson. Losses- Clark(Twice), Antonian, Johnson, Madison, Roosevelt, Madison
Honorable Mention
Incarnate Word, Southwest, Steele, Antonian, Judson, Smithson Valley
Remember, Anything can happen, I'm sure there will be plenty of surprises.
So try and Relax and Enjoy the Show........
Go Support Girls High School Basketball!!!!
Teams are jockeying for positions and rankings. Players are putting on performances on the court, hoping it will be enough to be recognized at the end, when its all said and done.
Just like the Oscar's where you have a lot of Movie Pictures worthy of Best Movie, you also have a lot of teams worthy of being the best team in the City. But from witnessing last night's performance, one team has shot up as the favorite to win it all.
Last night, O"Connor beat Brennan with an effort worthy of Best Team Performance (Ensemble Cast)!
Maybe I am making too much of it, but the 5 starters had 11, 11, 11, 11 and 10 points Respectivelly! Pretty Amazing! Can you have any more team balance than that? Just the same defensively, O'Connor players seemed to have more sense of urgency hustling for loose balls and rebounds, tying up ball when other team got the rebound, poking the ball away from offensive players, deflecting passes and you get the Picture. It almost seems you can't take a break and get a moment rest against them. I mean this in a good way, the team is pesky and they can frustrate the heck out of you.
Offensively, they moved the ball well making 3, 4, 5 passes before someone shot. They have the mindset of flying across the court for fast break opportunities from steals or defensive rebounds. I've been saying it since early last year, don't underestimate their guard play.
But one game doesn't necessarily determine ones team fate if you still qualify for the Big Dance. Anything can happen once that starts.
Brennan is still going to be a tough out come playoff time. They have great size across the board, depth and guard play just to mention a few of their strong points. They beat a real good Clark team pretty handily just a few days ago.
Last night though belonged to O'Connor.
Saturday, O'Connor vs Clark 2pm Paul Taylor Gym
A lot of people including myself have been saying how good Clark is all season. This is a game Clark can make a statement they belong in the Best of the City category. For O'Connor, they can solidify their grip as the Best Team in the City with a win.
Looking ahead, One game Can definitely determine a team's fate though when it comes to making the playoffs.
Case in point, going down the Standings in each District, starting with District 25-6A, Smithson Valley needs to virtually win out to have a chance to make the playoffs. Judson is probably in with 1 more win unless SV does sweep, they need two wins in the last 3 games. Wagner and Clemens are in. Steele needs to win 2 out of 4 to safely assure their playoff spot.
In District 26-6A, Johnson and Madison are locks to make the playoffs. The last 2 spots are between Roosevelt, Churchill and Reagan. I feel the magic number 7 wins in District will be enough to get you in the playoffs in this district. That means Roosevelt needs a win from either Madison, Johnson or Churchill to go in. No easy task. Churchill needs to win 3 out of 4. Two of those games are against the bottom 2 teams in district. If they take care of business there, then they need to beat either Reagan or Roosevelt and Churchill is in. Reagan has the toughest road. I feel they have to beat Churchill for starters. Then they have to beat either Madison or Johnson and take care of MacArthur.
In District 27-6A, O'Connor, Brennan, Brandeis, Clark are almost locks. Other teams are mathematically still in it but it's just a matter of playing out the remaining games. Brennan, Clark and Brandeis are all tied for number 2 seed and will be fighting for positioning. It may not seem like much but number 4 seed gets CC Carroll in the first round.
In District 28-6A, Carroll, Southwest, CC Ray and East Central are locked in for the playoff spots. Southwest is playing much better now and may be peaking. East Central can be dangerous with their dynamic young center.
In the Large Private School side, Incarnate Word got a good win over Antonian and then followed that up by beating Private School State Ranked #10 St. Stephens in Austin. IWHS and Antonian should represent well once the playoff starts. Antonian is deep. IWHS is playing well on both ends of the court.
Who will eventually be the best in the City? Just like the Oscar's, is it going to be the favorite or is there going to be an upset.
Which team has the best players? Who has the best Coach? Who has the best supporting cast?
Following are my teams going down the RED CARPET to the playoffs, all contenders. Everyone take your seats, the Show will begin shortly.....
1. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Madison, Reagan, Steele, Brennan (Twice), Brandeis. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall, Amarillo
2.Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison (Twice), Reagan, Steele, Johnson, Brandeis, Clark. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore, Amarillo, O'Connor(Twice)
3. Wagner: Wins- Johnson, Steven, Brandeis, Schertz Clemens(Twice), Steele Losses-Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Argyle, Reagan, Cedar Ridge, Austin Westlake, Pflugerville
4. Schetz Clemens: Wins-Reagan, Steele, Roosevelt, Round Rock. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll, Liberty Christian, Brandeis, Wagner(Twice)
5. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill. Losses- Liberty Christian, Brandeis, Brennan
6. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (3 times), Stevens, Reagan, IWHS, Brandeis, Churchill, Madison. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Amarillo, Brennan, Antonian, Churchill
7. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis, Stevens, IWHS, Reagan, Churchill. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor, Johnson
9. Roosevelt: Wins- Reagan, Churchill, Antonian. Losses Clemens, Churchill
Tied for 10th
Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele, Judson, Smithson Valley. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens, Johnson, O'Connor, Madison, Churchill, Roosevelt
Churchill: Wins- Brandeis, Roosevelt, Reagan, Johnson. Losses- Clark(Twice), Antonian, Johnson, Madison, Roosevelt, Madison
Honorable Mention
Incarnate Word, Southwest, Steele, Antonian, Judson, Smithson Valley
Remember, Anything can happen, I'm sure there will be plenty of surprises.
So try and Relax and Enjoy the Show........
Go Support Girls High School Basketball!!!!
Sunday, January 25, 2015
2016 ANABELLE "Belle" TOVAR
Anabelle "Belle" Tovar has been an Islander since middle school. Along with Alexia Torres and Tara Molina, the trio form a backcourt that have played Club Ball together going into 4 years.
 |
| Belle with Islanders Tara Molina, Lexi Torres |
Along the way, Belle has put on some shows on the basketball court!
Look up Baller in the Sports Dictionary and you will find that it's definition literally means Belle Tovar! Ok, better yet, one thing no one can argue about, is that Belle Tovar is a BALLER!
 |
| Belle Tovar |
Behind the fierce competitor, the tough no nonsense player you see on the court is undeniably a joking, jovial, free spirited, easy going, friendly young lady.
Her family is a huge support group. Family is very important to her. Every now and then, you can hear her 4 now 5 yr old brother Ayden getting after her when she misses a shot. She is very close to her family which fits perfect with our relatively small Islander Player-Parent Organization.
 |
| Ayden, Mom Brenda, Belle, Matt |
 |
| Belle, Brothers Matt, Ayden |
 |
| La Familia! |
She is anxious and ready to show her skills and talents on the court. Soon, she begins full time basketball training and vigorous strength and conditioning workouts after an ACL injury sidelined her the last few months.
Her basketball IQ, instincts on the court, skill level, defensive prowess, shooters mentality and ability to score in a variety of ways have her on the list of many colleges around the country.
She is Hungry to say the least!
She is a mainstay to the SA Islander Black team. She plays with Passion and Hates to lose. She simply brings to the table so many intangibles that just can't be coached.
Her range is from deep, I mean from a different zip code. A lot of kids can hit open shots from behind the arc, she is one of a few players with an aggressive defender on her face that create space for herself and hit an open 3 point shot with remarkable consistency.
Below is a Question and Answer with her.
It will give you a little insight of what a great young lady she is.
A Future Leader in our community!
1) What have you learned playing with the Islanders?
I learned about being a Leader on and off the court. To learn from your mistakes and applying what you have learned.
2) What does being an Islander represent?
Being an Islander represents that there is more to life than just basketball and its also important to having family around.
3) Who is your favorite basketball player?
Derrick Rose (Chicago Bulls)
4) What were your thoughts about basketball as you went through surgery and rehab?
That it was just a minor setback. I was just thinking about how to get myself back to the way I was and I couldn't let anything get in the way of that.
5) What do love about the game?
I love it because it is my second home. It is my stress reliever. I just love the game of basketball in general, I have been playing for so long that everything feels like second nature like its just part of me.
 |
| Belle with College letters |
6) Once College Coaches were able to call you, you had plenty of Coaches calling you when you were still in the middle of rehab, how did that make you feel?
Having a lot of Colleges call on me just justifies all the hard work I have put in to the game and that it has really paid off. Basically that I'm not doing this for nothing. Especially with my injury, having College Coaches still calling me is indescribable. It just gave me a lot of confidence that I have lost when I got hurt. It just makes me believe more in myself and makes me realize that I am that much closer to my dreams!
 |
| Belle's family #1 Fans |
When it comes to lives Challenges, you can either ask "Why Me?" or you can meet those Challenges head on. Belle chose the latter which speaks a lot about her Character and Personality!
And in case you need a reminder of what she can do, check out both videos below
Belle with No Ordinary 3pt shot
Belle Highlights
TAKE NOTICE, Belle Tovar is coming to a gym near you!
SA Islanders
La Familia!
Saturday, January 24, 2015
Coach Drew workout and SA Islanders Tryouts
SA Islanders having Girls HS Basketball Tryouts the month of February!
Please refer to our website for dates, locations and times
SA Islanders Calendar
Coach Drew with 4thQuarterWork will be Head Skills Coach.
Click link Below to show video training with 2017 Bri Soliz before she goes for 21points friday night. Also teammate 2017 Jordan Brooks went for 8 points handling ball pressure all night. Also in video IWHS 2018 Brooke Orme working hard on polishing up her skills. She has been a spark plug for the team with her defense, energy and scoring on timely situations.
Coach Drew Training Bri Soliz, Jordan Brooks and Brooke Orme
Please refer to our website for dates, locations and times
SA Islanders Calendar
Coach Drew with 4thQuarterWork will be Head Skills Coach.
Click link Below to show video training with 2017 Bri Soliz before she goes for 21points friday night. Also teammate 2017 Jordan Brooks went for 8 points handling ball pressure all night. Also in video IWHS 2018 Brooke Orme working hard on polishing up her skills. She has been a spark plug for the team with her defense, energy and scoring on timely situations.
Coach Drew Training Bri Soliz, Jordan Brooks and Brooke Orme
2016 ANALISA NARRO
We want to welcome 2016 Analisa Narro and her family to the SA Islanders family.
First, let me start with she is Academically one of the top students in IWHS. She is taking the toughest HS curriculum possible with advance AP classes. That is no easy task by itself. Now add that she plays Varsity Basketball to the mix with all the extra late night games and practices, that is impressive.
She is the definition of overcoming adversity. She has gone through setbacks but has always managed to bounce back with a Positive Attitude.
She has a tremendous work ethic to accompany her passion for the game! She has refined her shot to one of the best in the city.
Looking forward to her having a great AAU Club season!
Click below for some IWHS highlights
2016 ANALISA NARRO
First, let me start with she is Academically one of the top students in IWHS. She is taking the toughest HS curriculum possible with advance AP classes. That is no easy task by itself. Now add that she plays Varsity Basketball to the mix with all the extra late night games and practices, that is impressive.
She is the definition of overcoming adversity. She has gone through setbacks but has always managed to bounce back with a Positive Attitude.
She has a tremendous work ethic to accompany her passion for the game! She has refined her shot to one of the best in the city.
Looking forward to her having a great AAU Club season!
Click below for some IWHS highlights
2016 ANALISA NARRO
Monday, January 12, 2015
COACH DREW TRAINING READY FOR SA ISLANDERS SEASON and TRYOUTS
SA Islanders tryouts are right around the corner and so is Club ball.
Coach Drew with another video training with Alexia Torres getting ready for the AAU Club Season and tryouts!
Click Link below
COACH DREW TRAINING
Anyone interested in tryouts, visit saislanders.com
Coach Drew with another video training with Alexia Torres getting ready for the AAU Club Season and tryouts!
Click Link below
COACH DREW TRAINING
Anyone interested in tryouts, visit saislanders.com
Friday, January 9, 2015
TOP 10 TEAMS HIGH SCHOOL SA GIRLS BASKETBALL 1-9-15
Just like the winter cold air that is settling in San Antonio, so are teams settling into their positions in District Standings as district play is in full swing.
Its good for many teams and not too good for others.
It doesn't matter what went on in non-district games anymore, it matters now, when your team is in the outside looking in, on playoff positions in district standings. Wins are hard to come by, so teams need to take advantage of every game they can win. It might get to the point very soon that everything including standings and playoff positions because of the cold weather will very well just FREEZE in place.
After all its troubles, Wagner is still unbeaten in District 25-6A play. Their guard play is their strong point but have a couple of freshmen healthy ready to contribute. They have a big game at Steele tonight at 7pm. Steele has a chance to stir things up with a win. Inside game is Steele's game and advantage. Which teams going to impose their will?
Judson is clinging on to the last playoff spot with an overtime victory over Smithson Valley. Because of it, Judson has an inside track, for now, for the last playoff spot despite sporting a losing overall record. Now, more than ever, Smithson Valley needs to somehow get a win against one of the top 4 teams in District to get in the Dance, despite its great overall record. Clemens is still in the hunt but might need more firepower than just Kyra Lambert. Scoring 40 points individually might not be the answer, but then again it might!
Talk about change of fortunes in a heartbeat, That's High School girls basketball.
Earlier in non district play, Brandeis was having trouble getting a big win all season. So they go on and beat Clark who was the then best team in the city. Now they sit atop District 27-6A tied with O'Connor at 4-0. O'Connor is simply rolling along. Dangerous team which can beat you a variety of ways, from the outside, inside and with a stingy defense. Clark is still a mystery to me. Anxious to see what they can do against Brennan and O'Connor. They have enough good players and are deep in the bench to beat anyone in the city. Maybe the loss to Brandeis is what they needed to jumpstart them into a deep playoff run. Time will tell. Stevens off to a great start this season has cooled down and is sitting out of the playoff picture for now. Jay is in danger of missing the playoffs in a very long, long time even though they almost pulled off a win against Brandeis. Brennan is steady rolling along as well. They are one of the most consistent teams in the city. In the end, that might be what propels them to State. Marshall's Abby Rolloque keeps impressing with her over all play. She is shooting a high percentage from downtown.
In District 26-5A, Madison and Johnson sit atop still unbeaten in district play. Johnson has shown they can matchup against any team especially when they are running the floor and playing full court defense at the right time. My early season dark horse team, MacArthur is 0-4 and now sits looking from the outside in the playoff hunt. Churchill has huge games next week vs Reagan and Roosevelt with playoff implications written all over it. Reagan is sitting steady and could be the dark horse team once the playoff starts. They've lost to Johnson 2 times already, will the 3rd time be the charm when they play again. Reagan has a chance to knock off Madison from the unbeaten ranks Saturday, 10th, at Noon. But they have to get by Madison's Moriah Creswell first. She is having a great season.
District 28-6A could possibly be like the Football NFC South Division. There could possibly be a team make the playoffs with a losing record. By all indications, Carroll should have the inside track. Corpus Christi Ray and Southwest should be duking it out for runner up spot. In the end it probably wouldn't matter what position they come out since they will face a tough opponent either way from District 27-6A. But crazier things have happened in the playoffs. Anything is possible.
In non district play, Johnson has an interesting match up with Antonian Tuesday, 13th at 730pm. Antonian has beaten, Wagner, Judson and Churchill, will Johnson be next?
Speaking of next, Antonian then plays Incarnate Word Thursday, 15th at Littleton gym (Blossom) in their first of two Rivalry match ups. A lot of anticipation is brewing in the Private School sector. It's shaping up to be a great game for any basketball fan to come watch.
And in the topic of private schools, middle schools St George Episcopal and St Matthews might have a chance to meet if they win out in Blessed Sacrament Tournament for the Championship on Saturday. Both teams have great young talent that will be showcasing their skills next year in the High School level
And always remember, it's ultimately not what you are ranked that matters, It MATTERS how you finish!
That being said, just a couple changes in my Top 10.
Here is my Top 10
1. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Judson, Madison, Reagan, Steele, Brennan, Stevens. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall, Amarillo
2.Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison (Twice), Reagan, Steele, Johnson. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore, Amarillo, O'Connor
3. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill, Stevens twice, Killeen, Belton, Boerne. Losses- Liberty Christian, Brandeis
4. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (3 times), Stevens, Reagan, IWHS, Brandeis, Churchill. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Amarillo, Brennan
5. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis, Stevens, IWHS. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor
6. Wagner: Wins- Johnson, Steven, Brandeis, Schertz Clemens Losses-Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Argyle, Reagan, Cedar Ridge, Austin Westlake, Pflugerville
7. Schetz Clemens: Notable wins-Reagan, FW Timble Tech, Killeen Harker Heights, Stevens, Steele, Roosevelt, Round Rock. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll, Liberty Christian, Brandeis, Wagner
8. Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele, Judson, Smithson Valley. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens, Johnson, O'Connor
9. Steele: Wins-Brandeis, Southwest, IWHS, San Marcos. Losses-Reagan, Clemens, San Marcos, Stevens, Carroll, Navarro, Brennan, O'Connor
Tied for 10th
Brandeis: Wins- Highlands, Antonian, Judson, Clemens, Clark Losses-Churchill, Johnson (3 Times), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison
Antonian: Wins- Wagner, Judson, Churchill. Losses-MacArthur (Twice), CC Ray, Roosevelt, Brandeis
Honorable Mention
Churchill: Wins-Brandeis, MacArthur. Losses-Clark twice, Antonian, Johnson, Madison
Stevens: Wins- Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights, Austin Westlake. Losses-Clemens, Judson, FW Trimble Tech, Johnson, Wagner, Madison, Clark, O'Connor
Incarnate Word: Wins-Marion, RR, Cole Losses-Steele, Johnson, Madison, Manvel
Go Support Girls Basketball!!!!!!
Its good for many teams and not too good for others.
It doesn't matter what went on in non-district games anymore, it matters now, when your team is in the outside looking in, on playoff positions in district standings. Wins are hard to come by, so teams need to take advantage of every game they can win. It might get to the point very soon that everything including standings and playoff positions because of the cold weather will very well just FREEZE in place.
After all its troubles, Wagner is still unbeaten in District 25-6A play. Their guard play is their strong point but have a couple of freshmen healthy ready to contribute. They have a big game at Steele tonight at 7pm. Steele has a chance to stir things up with a win. Inside game is Steele's game and advantage. Which teams going to impose their will?
Judson is clinging on to the last playoff spot with an overtime victory over Smithson Valley. Because of it, Judson has an inside track, for now, for the last playoff spot despite sporting a losing overall record. Now, more than ever, Smithson Valley needs to somehow get a win against one of the top 4 teams in District to get in the Dance, despite its great overall record. Clemens is still in the hunt but might need more firepower than just Kyra Lambert. Scoring 40 points individually might not be the answer, but then again it might!
Talk about change of fortunes in a heartbeat, That's High School girls basketball.
Earlier in non district play, Brandeis was having trouble getting a big win all season. So they go on and beat Clark who was the then best team in the city. Now they sit atop District 27-6A tied with O'Connor at 4-0. O'Connor is simply rolling along. Dangerous team which can beat you a variety of ways, from the outside, inside and with a stingy defense. Clark is still a mystery to me. Anxious to see what they can do against Brennan and O'Connor. They have enough good players and are deep in the bench to beat anyone in the city. Maybe the loss to Brandeis is what they needed to jumpstart them into a deep playoff run. Time will tell. Stevens off to a great start this season has cooled down and is sitting out of the playoff picture for now. Jay is in danger of missing the playoffs in a very long, long time even though they almost pulled off a win against Brandeis. Brennan is steady rolling along as well. They are one of the most consistent teams in the city. In the end, that might be what propels them to State. Marshall's Abby Rolloque keeps impressing with her over all play. She is shooting a high percentage from downtown.
In District 26-5A, Madison and Johnson sit atop still unbeaten in district play. Johnson has shown they can matchup against any team especially when they are running the floor and playing full court defense at the right time. My early season dark horse team, MacArthur is 0-4 and now sits looking from the outside in the playoff hunt. Churchill has huge games next week vs Reagan and Roosevelt with playoff implications written all over it. Reagan is sitting steady and could be the dark horse team once the playoff starts. They've lost to Johnson 2 times already, will the 3rd time be the charm when they play again. Reagan has a chance to knock off Madison from the unbeaten ranks Saturday, 10th, at Noon. But they have to get by Madison's Moriah Creswell first. She is having a great season.
District 28-6A could possibly be like the Football NFC South Division. There could possibly be a team make the playoffs with a losing record. By all indications, Carroll should have the inside track. Corpus Christi Ray and Southwest should be duking it out for runner up spot. In the end it probably wouldn't matter what position they come out since they will face a tough opponent either way from District 27-6A. But crazier things have happened in the playoffs. Anything is possible.
In non district play, Johnson has an interesting match up with Antonian Tuesday, 13th at 730pm. Antonian has beaten, Wagner, Judson and Churchill, will Johnson be next?
Speaking of next, Antonian then plays Incarnate Word Thursday, 15th at Littleton gym (Blossom) in their first of two Rivalry match ups. A lot of anticipation is brewing in the Private School sector. It's shaping up to be a great game for any basketball fan to come watch.
And in the topic of private schools, middle schools St George Episcopal and St Matthews might have a chance to meet if they win out in Blessed Sacrament Tournament for the Championship on Saturday. Both teams have great young talent that will be showcasing their skills next year in the High School level
And always remember, it's ultimately not what you are ranked that matters, It MATTERS how you finish!
That being said, just a couple changes in my Top 10.
Here is my Top 10
1. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Judson, Madison, Reagan, Steele, Brennan, Stevens. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall, Amarillo
2.Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison (Twice), Reagan, Steele, Johnson. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore, Amarillo, O'Connor
3. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill, Stevens twice, Killeen, Belton, Boerne. Losses- Liberty Christian, Brandeis
4. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (3 times), Stevens, Reagan, IWHS, Brandeis, Churchill. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Amarillo, Brennan
5. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis, Stevens, IWHS. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor
7. Schetz Clemens: Notable wins-Reagan, FW Timble Tech, Killeen Harker Heights, Stevens, Steele, Roosevelt, Round Rock. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll, Liberty Christian, Brandeis, Wagner
8. Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele, Judson, Smithson Valley. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens, Johnson, O'Connor
9. Steele: Wins-Brandeis, Southwest, IWHS, San Marcos. Losses-Reagan, Clemens, San Marcos, Stevens, Carroll, Navarro, Brennan, O'Connor
Tied for 10th
Brandeis: Wins- Highlands, Antonian, Judson, Clemens, Clark Losses-Churchill, Johnson (3 Times), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison
Antonian: Wins- Wagner, Judson, Churchill. Losses-MacArthur (Twice), CC Ray, Roosevelt, Brandeis
Honorable Mention
Churchill: Wins-Brandeis, MacArthur. Losses-Clark twice, Antonian, Johnson, Madison
Stevens: Wins- Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights, Austin Westlake. Losses-Clemens, Judson, FW Trimble Tech, Johnson, Wagner, Madison, Clark, O'Connor
Incarnate Word: Wins-Marion, RR, Cole Losses-Steele, Johnson, Madison, Manvel
Go Support Girls Basketball!!!!!!
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
SA Islanders 2017 Jordan Brooks
Jordan Brooks is coming into her own as one of the main contributors to her San Angelo Lakeview HS basketball team. The team is out to a huge start and are getting notice in all kind of rankings. She is one of a strong core of sophomores making strong contributions.
Playing over the summer club ball with the SA Islanders, you can see her mature game by game slowly but surely. As the season wore on, she became one of the go to players on the White team. She seems easy going and is smooth down the court but make no mistake, she is deceivingly explosive. When her confidence is high, she can get to the basket with relentlessness attack mode.
Another great kid that not surprising excels in soccer as well.
Following is a small glimpse of what she can do on the court.
Click Below
2017 Jordan Brooks
 |
| Jordan Brooks being named MVP in Consolation Bracket |
Playing over the summer club ball with the SA Islanders, you can see her mature game by game slowly but surely. As the season wore on, she became one of the go to players on the White team. She seems easy going and is smooth down the court but make no mistake, she is deceivingly explosive. When her confidence is high, she can get to the basket with relentlessness attack mode.
Another great kid that not surprising excels in soccer as well.
Following is a small glimpse of what she can do on the court.
Click Below
2017 Jordan Brooks
Saturday, January 3, 2015
Coach Drew with 4thQuarterWork Joining SA Islanders Coaching Staff
SA Islanders Organization is pleased to announce Coach Drew with 4th Quarter Work is joining the Coaching Staff as Head Skills Coach as well as Head Strength and Conditioning Coach. He will also be assisting in Coaching duties as well.
Click below to watch a little of his training with SA Islanders Alexia Torres
Coach Drew 4thQuarterWork
Click below to watch a little of his training with SA Islanders Alexia Torres
Coach Drew 4thQuarterWork
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)