Lacking Something in the Spirit Department

by Lena Yeakey

The pickup 3-on-3 boys basketball game today at Bethany Christian Middle School was fast-paced, if a bit lacking in excitement. Heads turned while watching the ball take it's exciting journey: first it's Tristan Clark's, then Sol Brenneman, then on to Mr. Miller for it's final journey beyond the 3 point line to swish through the hoop. Unfortunately, few in the stands were excited, as the all-female audience glimpsed the determinedly stoic looks on the faces of their male counterparts.

Giggles from the stands punctuated the silence as the girls regarded the sometimes comic attempts by the players to show off. First, there was Landon Weldy, with his attempt to fake a pass that trailed off into the weeds. Then there was Sol Brenneman, shooting with all manner of behind the back, sidearm, maniac jump shots, only one of which made the hoop. There was also Tristan Clark, trying and failing to shoot over the defense of Weldy. Finally, there was Mr. Miller, passing with one hand and jumping to kingdom come. Miller did, however, have an impressive 3-pointer later in the game.

Though maybe lacking something in the spirit department, this game of 3-on-3 was interesting at times. One of the teams won by half the other's score, but due to the lack of enthusiasm, no one can seem to remember who.