The USA Select team, led by Coach Andrea Stinson, has enjoyed a successful run in Europe as the Elite Basketball Preseason tournament brings to an end another annual summer tour, providing the players with valuable exposure and competition. While the on-court performances have been impressive, it is the experience and development of the team that has stood out.
Coach Stinson, a former WNBA All-Star, spoke highly of this year’s squad, emphasizing the growth and depth of the players: “Well, we have a great group of guys this year. They are very talented and very outspoken. Last year we had, you know, decent talent, but this year we’re really talented.”
The tour has been an opportunity for the team to bond and showcase their skills to a wider audience.
Throughout the tour, USA Select has faced various teams, using every game as an opportunity to sharpen their strategies and allow their players to develop on the international stage. Stinson’s focus has been on giving the players the chance to be seen and helping them prepare for potential professional careers.
“At USA Select, we’re really looking forward to just helping young men and continuing to allow them an opportunity to be seen,” she remarked.
The team’s time in Malta has also allowed the players some much-needed downtime after a rigorous three-week schedule.
“We’ve been playing a game every day for the last three weeks, so the guys were able to relax and get a day off when we got here, so we’re enjoying it here in Malta,” Stinson noted.
The balance between competition and rest has helped the team stay fresh for the remaining matches, particularly as they look ahead to the championship game.
USA Select vs Hibernians
USA Select continued their winning on the court with a 110-69 victory over Hibernians at the Malta Basketball Association Pavilion. The team displayed their fast-paced transition game, which proved too much for their opponents. Key players such as Daequon Antoine and Malcolm Morgan were instrumental in building an early lead. Despite Hibernians’ efforts, especially from standout Ivan Demcesen, USA Select maintained control throughout the game.
With this win, USA Select heads confidently into the tournament’s final stages, with Coach Stinson expecting a tougher challenge in the championship: “I think the tournament is great. We’re expecting a tougher championship game on Friday.”
Youth Basketball Camp a success
In addition to their on-court performance, USA Select’s coaches played a key role in the Youth Basketball Camp organized by Elite Sports Management Malta. Held at Ta’ Qali Pavilion, the camp provided young Maltese players with expert guidance in areas like shooting, dribbling, and teamwork. Coaches from USA Select, alongside local coaches, conducted workshops that enhanced the players’ understanding of the game.
Ruben Baldacchino of Elite Sports Management praised the camp’s impact.
“It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am sure these young players will remember this,” Baldacchino said.
Camp attendees received personalised coaching and had the chance to compete and interact with USA Select players.
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