LEADING THE NEXT GEN
Future of the Mountaineers on show in the TBL
BASKETBALL: The Toowoomba Basketball League’s primary goal is to build the profile of local A-grade basketball in the Garden City, creating a competitive fourteam competition.
What has been an important sidenote is the development of some of the region’s most talented youngsters.
The Westridge Warriors have drafted one of the most exciting young cores in the competition, including Seth Ham, David Werth and Thon Angui.
The trio, all with Mountaineers experience at different levels, put their potential on display in an opening round win, and teammate Syd Hume said they are ex
citing prospects for Toowoomba basketball.
“We had a few good standouts,” Hume said.
“Thon is only 17, and he put up 15 points in the fourth quarter which was a game in which we trailed.
“We spent a season together playing QSL, and with that representative experience it carries him well into A-grade.
“David might be the best point guard in Toowoomba. He had a really consistent QSL season and deserves to be in the limelight.
“He’s had a year and a half of on and off injuries, but he’s starting to get healthy and is playing well.”
Hume, a long time member of the Mountaineers at the top level, also brings experience in coaching the Mountaineers under-21s.
He said he is enjoying the opportunity to be able to play the game and mentor the team’s up and comers.
“The game slows down a bit (at this level) and there’s the opportunity for a bit more creativity,” he said.
“I think there’s a natural progression, and as players get older it’s up to them to help provide a structure for the younger players.
“The investment needed to be made and it will pay itself off in the future. This gives locals the chance to shine.”
Hume had a big impact in the opening round victory, and he said the opportunity under coach Matt Cox to play without fear is getting the best out of the roster.
“I’m definitely happy with the game all-round,” he said.
“I didn’t try to do too much. I knew where I was effective and tried to put myself there as much as possible.
“Anyone can take a shot without hanging their head if they miss. Everyone backs each other up and we make up for each others mistakes.”
GETS
ROUND TWO UNDERWAY
Second round action of the TBL tips off at Clive Berghofer Arena tonight.
Starting at 6pm, the Southwest Bricklaying Eels look to improve their record to 2-0 when taking on the Pump Panthers.
Following at 7.30pm, the Westridge Fruit and Vegetable Warriors can also stay unbeaten, as they take on the Washed on James Mustangs who are hunting their first win.