While some 14 year olds might be cooped up in the house on this rainy summer night,in Westbury, NY, the young ladies of the Running Rebels and Long Island Panthers were set for a head to head match-up for the Nike Swoosh Girl’s Basketball 14U championship.   Despite the weather, both teams had a great turnout, bringing with them highly energetic fans to support them.  But when the buzzer sounded, the Running Rebels would prove to be the better team overall, as they cruised to a 61-23 victory.

It was evident from tip off that the Running Rebels had a more talented group. Guards Charise Wilson and Tamara Simpson seemed to cut through the Panthers defense like a sharp ginsu.  Despite the dominance by the Running Rebels guards, the Panthers managed to keep the game close early, ending the 1st quarter only down five.  The Panthers continued to play hard, but the Running Rebels talent began to prevail.  By halftime, the Running Rebels had taken a 26-12 lead.

The Running Rebels continued to widen their lead in the 2ndquarter.  Wilson showed ball handling prowess, splitting double teams and breaking the Panthers press.  But what was more impressive, was her cat like reflexes, as she played the passing lanes and forced numerous Panther turnovers.  The North Babylon freshman finished with a game high 18 points.  As the game continued, the Running Rebel’s overall team defense caused all types of problems for the Panther guards – at times preventing them from even getting the ball past half court.  By the end of the 3rd quarter, the game was clearly out of the Panthers’ reach, as the lead grew to 36.

“We work at it” says Coach Ken Parham, when asked about how his team’s defense was so dominate in tonight’s matchup.  “The kids kind of buy into the system and they play hard”.  Despite such a dominate victory, Coach Parham does believe that there are areas where his girls can improve upon.  “We want to keep playing hard.  We’ve had a lot of success and we want to continue to play hard and together”.  

As for Wilson, the work doesn’t just stop here at Nike Swoosh.  Clearly the best player on the court tonight, Wilson assured that the buck doesn’t stop at one championship.  “Every season, I want to win a championship” says Wilson.  “We’re going to another city (Riverbank) tournament and then after that, I’m training for my school season”.  Evidently, some 14 year olds prepare for the school year differently from others.   

After winning Long Island The Running Rebels won three straight days at Riverbank State Park to become the New York City Champions.