Oaklands Wolves basketball's U13 boys had a successful time at the Brentwood Fire Summer Series tournament - finishing second in the six-team competition.
Four of their five games were played outside, and all nine players got plenty of court time as they finished with four victories.
They faced London Elite U14s in the opening game, and this proved to be their toughest test against a physically much bigger team.
And so despite 10 points from Liam Schertel, they went down 66-35 against a side who flew to Poland the following day for a European tournament.
The team went indoors for their second game, and they never looked back after a 21-8 first period as Kings Lynn were beaten 60-42. Zac Butterworth and Schertel each finished with 16 points.
Wolves returned to the playground at Billericay School for the third game, with a dominant first half paving the way for a 70-30 victory against the hosts.
Tituoan Vimeux led Wolves with 14 points as all nine players got on the scoresheet.
Game four brought a 49-42 win over Kent Crusaders, their best display of the day.
A pair of late baskets from Schertel and Vimeux, who both finished with 12 points, saw Oaklands pull away for the victory.
With second place in touching distance, Oaklands played a winless Hackney Wolves side in their final game and wrapped up a 45-18 victory.
Butterworth, who was named in the tournament all-star team, and Eriko Brakalaci led a balanced scoring effort with eight points apiece.
Coach Dave Ryan said: "I'm massively proud of the boys" he said. "We were the only team with no players who've played National League, so the way they stepped up was fantastic.
"I hope they learned a lot and those that are playing for us in the National League next year will reap the benefit."
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