Opening Week at The Kenner League: A viewpoint from the stands

By SHAYLAH L. BROWN
Standing against the sidelines was the coach from the Sam Ballers who yelled from the sidelines “you got to move, this ain’t Disney Land.” The game was in full swing and the intensity of trying to calculate who might win was no easy
feat.
The sounds of sneakers screeching across the waxed floor in the gymnasium and the basketball dribbling all created its own beat. A beat that became the sound track to the game, loud and constant but not over powering.
Seats were filled at the game Saturday and Sunday. The time goes as quickly as the ball moves up and down the court. The games begin at 1pm and conclude at 6:20pm. In these five hours professional level basketball is played. One blink and you take the risk of missing a phenomenal shot. The 2017 Nike Pro-City Jabbo Kenner College/Pro League kick-off was a success.
In many instances the game was tied between the two teams, most times one shot made the difference. Jamaal Brown from Texas A&M University playing for the Sam Ballers helped pushed the team to their winning score with a 3 point shot.
AJ Wilson from George Mason playing for the Curt Smith All Stars kept all eyes on him for his dunks, constant shots, and highlighter yellow sneakers. His performance and skill is what we hope to see more of in this season.
“I feel like it’s a great platform to prove myself and my ability, my goal in this game was to bring energy and defense. I scored well from the field making it to the rim, and a couple of three pointers, I did whatever I could to help my team in making the win.” said Wilson
Byron Allen and Rudo Fernando are also players to look out for. Byron Allen from George Mason playing for Higher Level scored every free throw and his swift movements combined with high jumps made him a major threat to the other teams. In the game between Higher Level and Clyde’s, Higher Level took the win with an 18 point lead ending the game with 83 points. Allen discussed what they did well on the court,

“I feel like our performance was great, I was having fun enjoying my time. We played hard, we held it to a one side opportunity and we did a good job with defensive men.” said Allen
It is clear that strategy is key to winning these games, because the games move so quick each throw, pass, rebound is crucial. Between the first and second quarters the teams made a concerted effort to regroup with their coaches and discuss what they were doing well and what could be improved upon. Former Georgetown Athlete Greg Wellington was excited to be back playing at Georgetown and helping take his team
“My team came out we worked hard we played a lot of defense, I played the role of the facilitator. I did all the little things make sure my team is in the right places and help get them there. It’s always a good time to play back here at Georgetown.” said Wilson
First time player at the Kenner League Duane Clayton from Coppin State University playing for the Darren McClinton All-stars, won the game by a won point lead with a final score of 44 points. Most of the game was in an intense tie, each team balled extremely hard. Clayton’s name continued to be shouted out by the announcer after his numerous shots he made.
“I wanted to get my name out there, my strategy was to control the game I started hitting shots early to build my confidence throughout the game. During the second quarter we as a team knew we had an upper hand when we took an early shot and the other team missed a basket.” said Clayton
In between the intensity of the game time outs and new games the food is also something to look forward too. Exceptional hot dogs and French fries, really keep the game day atmosphere. During half times music echoed out of the speakers to continue to keep the gym at a high energy level, sounds from Heavy D, JAY Z, and mixes the DMV’s go-go beats.
TOP 5 REASONS TO ATTEND KENNER LEAGUE GAMES THIS SUMMER
1. The game it a great time. The level of professional basketball being played is exceptional. These players are on the rise, college and professional athletes. The games turn heads, no dull moments
2. It’s free, if you’re looking for something to do to take a break from the summer heat the McDonough Gymnasium, is one of the coolest places you’ll find. The gym is constantly air conditioned.
3. The food, hot dogs, cheeseburgers, French fries and more.
4. The beats from the half time DJ, if you did not come ready to party you will certainly leave feeling the hype.
5. You might meet someone famous, the Kenner League has Basketball legends.