Stattmann takes last throw at the hoop
On rebound from Cairns High’s 2019 thrashing ...
A CHAMPIONSHIP in one of Queensland’s biggest junior basketball tournaments would be the perfect way for Ky Stattmann to farewell his school career.
The Year 12 student will be considered one of Cairns State High School’s leading men at the Champion Basketball Schools of Queensland competition in Brisbane this week.
Stattmann was the team’s leading scorer at last year’s tournament, dropping 144 points across seven games (20.57 a game) as the Bulldogs took home a silver medal.
But now in his last year at Cairns High, Stattmann wants to bow out a winner.
He was heartbroken last year when Townsville nursery Ignatius Park College romped to the title, thrashing Cairns in the final behind a big performance from Australian junior representative Boston Mazlin.
But in Stattmann, Cairns has its own junior national team representative, a big body who, when coupled with young stars Isaiah Grabau and Kane Runnalls, has the potential to dominate any rival.
Stattmann’s lead-up included plenty of time on the court, whether it was shooting around with brother Kody, who is part of Virginia’s college program, or in one of many scrimmages against teams featuring current and former Marlins and Taipans players.
He also had time during the recent Top of the North Challenge between teams from Cairns and Townsville, and while he was not a focal point in that side, Stattmann says he took plenty from it.
“I played all four games but probably got about 10 minutes or so overall,” Stattmann said.
“We had a heap of Marlins and Taipans so they were priority, but it was good to get that experience playing against bigger bodies.”
His final CBSQ campaign is all the more special for Stattmann with mum Tonya handed the keys to the machine.
Cairns High coach Brad Burdon was unable to travel with the team due to illness, so Tonya, who was travelling as a mum and supporter, was asked to step in as coach.
Tonya is an accomplished and successful coach at various levels, but led only one session with the team before it started its campaign.
“I only know about four of them from coaching other teams so it’s extremely difficult,” Tonya said. “But Brad gave me a good rundown of the team and the players.
“I enjoy coaching Ky. We have a good relationship, he plays well for me and he helps me with the team.”