Tulsa Celtics Dismiss Bixby 39-36 in MAYB Tourney opener

1-28-2005
Played in MAYB tourney for 8th graders; Celtics consist of : Caresio, Pinkerton (first ever Celtic GAME appearance~practiced once with us last year at JCC), Maguire, Santos, Larkin, Morton, McIlroy & Wise. Played Bixby Spartans (less Creighton Williams who injured his back in HH game the day before).

We were behind most of game until last 2 minutes when we took the lead and ended up winning 39-36 in low scoring affair. Interesting in the MAYB rules that Creighton (Holland Hall & Bixby's Creighton Williams), 15 yrs old, is Eligible to play, but three of our 14 yr old Celtics, Benson, Ebigwu & Shannon, are inelegible due to being in the 9th grade.

True team effort with all seven players contributing. Sean (McIlroy) has been sick all week and had not attended school since his return from his cruise, started the game and scored our first two points on a sweet reverse layup. Bixby jumped all over us early and held the lead throughtout the contest. Price (Pinkerton) made great passes when he first entered the game and adjusted well to the new system.

Jarred (Wise) had tough first half as Brown , the burly center for Bixby had quite the hot hand. But Wise played solid throughout and hit some key shots helping his team during the comeback. Matt Maguire performed well as he handled the ball and got us into our offense and played his usual excellent defensive game and came up with key looseballs.

Alan (Santos) handled point guard for most of the game and showed his awesome creativity and solid leadership.
Both Matt & Alan showed they could beat their opponent off the dribble.

Brock (Morton) did not attempt ONE shot tonight against Bixby, although he played the entire game. No turnovers, only 4 or 5 rebounds, but played super defense. Kale had solid game and some crucial baskets. Price came up big late when we put him on the block. His strength and desire makes him a force to be reckoned with inside. He added important free throws late in the game. Truly a Celtic TEAM victory!!

The Comets, Redskins & Dutch will enjoy these players in the coming years.
Our three,14 yr old ninth graders, Ebigwu, Benson & Shannon,,, attend Union, Jenks and Broken Arrow High School.