Mission opens against rival Arlee

Craig Moore

Leader Staff

ST. IGNATIUS- It's that time of year again - hoops time - and what better way to open the season than to have the Mission and Arlee boys face each other next Monday, Dec. 6. Arlee will host Mission at the Arlee Community Center.

Mission has a team of players that have not really played together since junior high, and a lot of players that have been scattered around from JV and varsity.

After the first week of practice Mission head coach Steve Woll was pleasantly surprised with his players.

"I thought our kids were hungry and eager (during practice)," said Woll.

In Arlee, boys head coach Cole Maxwell said they are putting things in for the season and not really focusing on any games as of now.

"We have to be ready to play anyone," said Maxwell.

With Monday night's rival game it's hard for the teams to prepare for the season and one of their biggest games.

"Mission will be well coached," said Maxwell.

Arlee, who lost twice to Mission last year, will be looking to even the score, Maxwell said.

"Every time we play them (Arlee) it comes down to three points," said Woll.

Last year Arlee and Mission split during the regular season but it was Mission coming out on top during the divisionals.

"The kids are ready to go and we have had a good week of practice," said Maxwell.

The Warriors will be small this year but should be able to make for a lack of height with speed.

"They (Arlee) have great shooters, scorers and kids that love the game," said Woll.

Woll and the Bulldogs are looking forward to the challenge.

Both teams are under the same circumstances - playing the first game of the season against a rival after two short weeks of practice.

"It's a big rival. Kids are related, and there are family ties and friends," said Woll.

The game will showcase the shooting of both teams, so the key of the game could be ball control.

"The beauty of playing Mission is that they (players) know each other. It's a great atmosphere and the fans are there to see great basketball," said Maxwell.