He was definitely a bit timid during his first game. It didn't help that the players on the other team were giants.
Once he got out there & got a little more comfortable he played well. He even took some shots when the opportunity arrived...
I love that he didn't hesitate to block guys who were a head taller than him.
I'm not gonna lie...this game was brutal. During half time the team took some practice shots and we could see from their body language that they already felt defeated. Of course, then there was Landon...taking shots with a huge smile across his face. He's just happy to play.
Fast forward to Monday and they had their first home game. If we thought the previous team were a bunch of giants we were in for a rude awakening. There were guys on the opposing team who not only had facial hair but were easily taller than Chris. Landon didn't even come up to their shoulders! The ref jokingly told another parent that he was pretty sure he saw one of the kids at the bar he was at the previous night. Kinda hard to block someone who is 2 feet taller than you.
Personally, I think it was the most exciting game of the season so far. Landon's team played really well & I was really proud of Landon for not being afraid to set screens even when that meant having an enormous guy charging towards him.
He also scored 3 three-pointers during the game. After his first three pointer he flashed an infectious smile and looked over at his personal little cheering section on the far side of the bleachers. I gave him a thumbs up and couldn't stop smiling myself.
It's no secret that I love to watch him play. I don't really care if he wins or loses. He has such a love for the game. He lights up any time he talks about it. He could spend hours talking basketball...if he were only able to find someone to listen that long.
I think what I'm most proud about is his sportsmanship. His team took a loss this game. Later when we were in the parking lot getting ready to leave Landon saw the other team's coach. Without any hesitation he called out "Good game, Coach!" The coach, in turn, told Landon that his team played a good game. I just love the humility that he shows.
We have talked a lot about the reason why he plays. He has an opportunity to glorify the Lord in all that he does and that includes basketball. That means he can be a positive force on the court instead of the hot-head who gets angry at his teammates and throws a fit when they are losing. He can pass the ball and get assists instead of being a ball hog. He can be an encouragement to others and he can show humility.
He's off to a great start.
He may be small but he is mighty.
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