The Rollers were the only Saipan-based group that competed in the tournament, where they joined six out of eight categories. They nearly claimed a trophy in12-and-under coed division, until they lost to the Island Dragons. The 12U Rollers were pushed to the losers’ bracket at the start, where they tackled through teams Tamuning Typhoons and Typhoons PI. One of their players, Michael Cenir, received the 12U’s ‘Most Valuable Player’ award.
From there, the Rollers battled their way in the 14U advance coed ‘A,’ 16U advance boys ‘A,’ 18U advance boys ‘A,’ 16-18 coed ‘B,’ and 21U competitive boys categories. Savali Talalemotu and Dixon Kwon were recognized as top scorers from their respective divisions, where the former scored 53 points (average of 17.67 per game) and the latter 26 points (average of 8.67 per game).
“Overall, it was a good experience. We got to play against high-caliber teams. We had to adjust our playing style and be stronger mentally,” said Rollers’ Ryan Iglesias from the 16-18 coed ‘B’ group.
According to Rollers’ 14U ‘A’ division player Irvyn Malonzo, this was his first tournament in Guam. His team fell to the MTM Falcons 43-39 before being eliminated by the Barrigada Crusaders in the losers’ bracket.
“The players (from Guam) are well trained. We just have to practice harder on the court, because now I know how Guam plays,” said Malonzo.
One of the Rollers’ biggest obstacles was adapting to new rules, which followed those of the National Collegiate Athletic Association.
“Overall, the kids enjoyed the tournament. We can pace with them, but we need to work on our free throws and jump shots,” said Rollers’ head coach Joe Diaz.
“Compared to last year, we improved due to six months of practice. We worked on stamina and strengthening. ” he added.
This was his team’s first time to compete in the TakeCare hoopfest, where all divisions followed a double elimination format. The Rollers normally sanctioned games with Guam’s Barrigada Basketball Club in 2007, 2008, and 2009.
