Off to a Rocking good start
WILLIAMS DELIGHTED WITH OPENING WINS FOR EAGLES
IT was an exceptional start to the basketball season for Newcastle Eagles as they saw off Cheshire Phoenix at home and then went to Glasgow and took victory over the Rocks.
While the main plaudits and talking points of the Eagles’ performances revolved around imports Rahmon Fletcher, Mike Morsell and John Mitchell, there were solid supporting efforts from all the players on the floor.
None more so than Kai Williams who shrugged off an injury to contribute vital minutes for his side, enabling others to have rests and stay fresh.
Williams is in his third season with Newcastle and was delighted with his side’s start.
He said: “To go 2-0 any weekend, especially to start off the year, is nothing but a good thing.
“I think it was a good start, especially with us only having a sevenman rotation.
“Guys were having to play different positions to what they are probably going to have to play most of the year..
“It was very promising going forward knowing we can step up when we have five healthy bodies to eventually add as we go on.
“Very happy, all the guys are really happy we came out with two wins.
“It was a really strong performance at home followed up by a gritty win on the road.”
Williams did not light the stats sheet up with his numbers but there is no doubting his presence and contribution contributed greatly to the Eagles’ success given his own circumstances and fitness.
He said: “To be honest it was probably the worst-case scenario for me this weekend only having seven guys.
“I probably had to play a few more minutes than I would have liked coming off a bit of a back injury.
“I am just happy I could contribute in whatever way possible to help us be successful, whether that was to play more minutes or to be a voice or provide whatever.”
He added: “I am pretty sore right now and the bus trip there and back did not help but they are things we cannot get away from.
“I will have a nice physio appointment and just revaluate the situation daily.”
It will be Glasgow Rocks again for the Eagles next - but this time at home on Friday night.
With possibly more players available and a win over their rivals already in place, Williams is feeling confident.
He went on: “The guys are looking really sharp and full of energy in practice and there is a great buzz about us at the moment.
“We are all looking forward to keeping that going this weekend.”