Gold medal game

We picked the right time to have our best effort, focus, and execution in the tournament. 78-62 was the final. Our kids played a fantastic game, shared the ball, played as a fist, and stayed together throughout. As I have stated in this blog a number of times, this is an incredibly impressive group of young men. Not only can they play ball, but they will be attending some of the top academic institutions in the country.  

Spencer Weisz was named tournament MVP after recording a triple double. But our team defenses was the real story. 

We  had tremendous support from our delegation as well as the other basketball teams in the Youth division.  A big thanks to the parents and families of our kids as well. The smiles on their faces and the realization that their kids had accomplished a terrific feat was better than any gold hanging around our necks. 

Win the day,

Jamie

Day before Gold medal game

We have reached the point of our trip where our goal is within reach.  We practiced yesterday at Wingate with a great, public film session in the Maccabiah cyber zone. 

We had a nice crowd for this session but the kids were very focused on learning about our opponent.   

We then traveled to a small IDF base consisting of only 20 soldiers all between the ages of 18-24. This hit home for our guys.  We talked about their missions and their role in the Israeli Army.  We shared stories about what it means to be a part of a team.  The soldiers were big basketball fans and our guys quickly became fans of these soldiers. 

Sunday night we will compete for a Gold Medal. Eventhough our goal entering this trip was to "win everything," we realize, and appreciate, the impact of those who we have met, the places we have visited, and the relationships we have forged. This is a spectacular country that stretches far beyond its physical boarders. We are lucky to have had this opportunity and are all better people for it. 

Win the day,

Jamie

Semi Finals vs Brazil

USA 63 brazil 37. 

Total team effort during a tough, physical game. Loved the poise our guys showed throughout the game as they showed some great mental toughness. We have now earned the right to play Israel for the Gold Medal on Sunday might. Might be on jltv.com at 1pm est. 

- jamie

Preliminary game #3 vs Turkey

Another good effort, final score USA 100 Turkey 11.  Tougher test today in Canada which will be our final preliminary game. 

Preliminary game #2

USA 101 Great Britain 28. Playing Turkey at 8pm tonight. 

- Jamie

Preliminary game one vs South Africa

Needles to say our team was very excited to get on the court and play tonight. We can out very focused and played with great enthusiasm and execution which took us to a 105-15 win.  Everyone had major contributions.  Next up is Great Britain at 6pm. 

Opening Ceremonies

The saying "hurry up and wait" could never have been more true last night. After a morning at Wingate to practice and prepare for competition. We put on our white Adidas warm-up suites and Team USA gear and took off for Jerusalem.

We boarded a train in Tel Aviv while people cheered and greeted us with warm smiles and best wishes.  When we exited the train, Teddy Stadium was only a short walk away. 

We mingled with other athletes and coaches from every delegation involved. Met tons of new people and, of course, traded some gear.   The entrance of Team USA was met with the second loudest ovation (Israel took top honors).  It was a tremendous rush for all of us. 

The ceremony concluded with Aly Raisman lighting the torch and a spectacular concert.   It was a long night but an unforgettable one at that. 

Let the games begin!

- Jamie