This past Sunday morning Rockwell Management defeated Jason Suss DMD, in the 2nd/ 3rd grade girls division of the Mitch Gross Basketball League (MGBL) Finals to become league champions. The team was led by coaches David Wild and Michael Graber, with an emphasis on having fun and learning the fundamentals of basketball, including teamwork.

Rockwell got off to a slow start this season with a 1-2 record, but then started to feel comfortable together and string together a winning streak going into the playoffs.

Rockwell Management won its quarter-final playoff game against Teaneck Doghouse in an exciting game which came down to the last second. In the semifinals, Rockwell revealed its defensive prowess in a low scoring 6-4 victory over Travel Techsperts.

In the Finals, Jason Suss DMD, expertly coached by Jason Suss, Binyamin Reider and Philip Friedlander, jumped out to a quick 4-0 lead, but Rockwell fought back, led by high scorer Mia Polonetsky who had 10 points during the game. The teams then proceeded to trade baskets, with Jason Suss DMD scoring led by Galil Neuer who had 4 points, Elizabeth Rieder (3 points), Leah Suss (2 points), Esther Friedlander (2 points) and Samantha Weinstock (1 point) contributing.

Rockwell only led 10-9 after three quarters.

However, Rockwell pulled away in the final quarter, behind several key baskets by Mia Polonetsky and intense defense by the whole team. It was these key baskets and her game high 10 points that earned Polonetsky game MVP honors. Several other players on Rockwell also contributed to scoring in the game, including Amira Grossman (4 points), Sara Mirwis (2 points) and Naomi Wild (2 points). Ultimately Rockwell came away with an 18-12 victory.

It was a great effort by both teams which was recognized with a trophy ceremony following the game. MGBL action continues with over 600 boys playing. Please visit MGBL.org for rosters and a schedule of games.

By David Wild