Optimist Park Pee Wee League is Showcasing Skills

By: Shelia Mader

The Pee Wee League was more than ready to hit the court last week as Optimist Park rec basketball officially tipped off its season. After weeks of practice and plenty of hard work, these young athletes were eager to show what they could do, and opening night delivered two exciting matchups.

In the first game, the Spurs edged out the Thunder in a close 19–17 win. Samuel McKay led the Thunder with an impressive 12 points. Rkaysien Early added three points, while Maverick Maddox chipped in two.

The Spurs were led by JeMari Leslie with eight points, followed by Karter Godwin with five. Marcus Kelly Jr. added four points, and Mason Hall finished with two.

The second game of opening night saw the Knicks pull out an 8–5 victory over the Mavericks. Khalil Powell led the Mavericks with three points, while Ahmad Bryant and Seth Schuler each added one.

For the Knicks, Ja’Meir Sims scored four points, with Akinsley Davies and Cameron Grandberry contributing two points apiece.

Thursday night brought another round of action, with the Spurs defeating the Raptors 16–6 and the Thunder handing the Knicks a 21–14 loss.

In the Raptors versus Spurs matchup, Jaydon Williams and Kayson Bryant led the Raptors with three points each. The Spurs were paced by Marcus Kelly Jr., who scored seven points, followed closely by Karter Godwin with six. Mason Hall added two points, and JeMari Leslie finished with one.

In the night’s final game, Bryson Knowles led the Knicks with six points, while Akinsley Davies added four. KaMauri Thomas and Ja’Meir Sims each scored two.

The Thunder was once again led by Samuel McKay, who finished in double figures with 12 points. Rkaysien Early added four points, while Isan Britt and Karlus McClain scored two each. Maverick Maddox also got on the board with a free throw.

It was a strong opening week filled with hustle, teamwork, and plenty of smiles, setting the tone for a fun Pee Wee League season ahead.