BRANTFORD— You can say that it’s been a smooth and successful transition for Assumption Lions Jr. basketball player Daelon Smith.
Since strapping on the Assumption uniform, this Grade 9 student/athlete has been getting more playing time during what was a regular season which saw them lose only one game.
“At the beginning I was a little nervous, but now I’m much more relaxed,” Smith said. In terms of what his team’s strengths are Smith quickly responded, “Shooting and passing.”
Finishing up the regular season Smith made his mark when on Thursday, January 16th, he came off the bench in the fourth and hit a three pointer in the Assumption gym in what was an eventual 75-41 win against the North Park Trojans.
“We ran the floor well,” Smith said. Regarding what it would mean to win junior basketball OFSAA he stated, “It would mean a lot.”
Assumption, who were playing without Kaleb Thomas was led offensively by Andrew Warder who entertained the crowd by putting on a show with an astounding 31 points.
As time ticked down in the first quarter, Assumption’s offence caught fire as they sunk 11 points in the final two and a half minutes which extended their lead from 13-8 to 24-10 heading into the second.
“We ran the floor well,” Smith said about what they did well.
Continuing to put up points, Assumption began taking total control as they started the second with six straight points and eventually increased the lead to 35-16 on route to a 42-21 halftime score.
It wasn’t until the fourth quarter with Assumption firmly in the driver’s seat with a 65-36 lead that Smith made his mark as he entered the game and seconds later dramatically hit that three-pointer.
“I’m getting some floor time. I’m not getting as much responsibility and it’s understandable,” Smith said about being a Grade 9 first year player. “It’s (playing) a lot of fun.”
Smith also had a few offensive opportunities and drew an assist as Assumption finished off what was a dominating regular season with a dominating win against North Park. Now it’s time for playoffs!