Uplands Academy Vs Uckfield College Basketball Match Report.

Uplands kicked off their basketball calendar with a tough opening fixture against Uckfield College. With only five players available and no substitutes, the team knew it was going to be a long and demanding afternoon. In contrast, Uckfield had a full squad of 15 rotating players, so our team were up against it from the start, but the students embraced the challenge brilliantly.

First Quarter: Despite the circumstances, Uplands started positively and settled into the game straight away. They moved the ball well and created some strong chances. Early on, Angus and Manu each put 2 points on the board to get us going.

We were unlucky not to score more, with several shots rolling around the rim before dropping out. The first quarter ended 20–4 to Uckfield, but the effort was excellent.

• Angus - 2 

• Manu - 2

Second Quarter: After a quick team talk and a short breather, the team came out firing! The intensity picked up, and they made some clever decisions that helped us win back possession early. Uplands dominated the quarter and played some brilliant basketball. Points came from:

• Zach – 4
• Harry – 5
• Amelia – 4

The team won the second quarter 13–8, reducing the deficit.

Third Quarter: The tired legs started to show in the third quarter, understandably, with the students playing every second of the match. Even so, the determination never dropped. Both schools put in some smart tactical play.

Points this quarter came from:

• Harry – 5
• Amelia – 2
• Zach – 2

Fourth Quarter: Going into the final quarter, the team still held their heads high and continued to give everything. Even with almost no rest all afternoon.

• Harry – 2
• Manu – 2

The game finished 62–30 to Uckfield, but the score doesn’t reflect the effort, teamwork, or spirit shown throughout. Mr Stidder, PE Teacher commented:

 'The players represented Uplands brilliantly and showed the MARK values from start to finish. They knew they were outnumbered before the game even began, but not once did they complain, they just got on with it and played some fantastic basketball. I genuinely couldn’t be prouder of them!'

They finished the day with a well-earned celebratory ice cream.