High hoops for a great basketball season

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Regina Edwards
  • 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. --  Team Little Rock, it's that time again to hang the cleats up and take the sneakers down.

Intramural basketball season starts Monday at Little Rock Air Force Base.

Sixteen teams have signed up and are ready to represent their units and take the trophy from the two-year reigning champs from Camp Robinson.

Will they retain the title this year? There are a few ways to know: the Combat Airlifter will keep a weekly record, and the scores and standings will be posted on the television display at the base's fitness center.

But, the most exciting way to know is by being in the action, seeing it as it happens and joining in the fun. Come out and support your team.

"Team supporters are highly encouraged to come to the games," said Tech. Sgt. Christina Belles, 19th Force Support Squadron noncommissioned officer-in-charge of sports and special events.

Pre-season games started Jan. 5, and the teams came out making a statement that was hopefully a foreshadowing of games to come.

Team 1 from the 19th Medical Group and Team 1 from the 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron played the first game and set the tone for intense competition.

Back and forth scoring kept the crowd roaring and teammates yelling. Ultimately, the 19th MDG defeated the 19th LRS 58-42.

"I think my team will have a good season," said Senior Airman Peter Elefante, the 19th MDG Team 1 coach. "Unlike other teams who randomly come together and make a team for that season, my team has been playing together for about three years now. We're solid, and I think that gives us an edge on the others."

Elefante said his team is ready and anxious to put the trophy back in Airmen hands, since the Army team claimed the victory once again in 2014.

Don't miss this epic plan to dethrone the kings unfold on the court this season.
Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, games will be played at 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Out of all 16 teams, 10 will continue to the playoffs. The victors of the championship receive a trophy and bragging rights for the year.

So grab a friend, fill the bleachers and cheer your team to the championship for the big win.