Williams (left) with Cafferty and Ball
Again, this posting is long overdue. Still, it doesn't change the fact that Steds was victorious in this year's Battle for the Shadow. While the tourney was filled with the usuals, tank tops, Zahm theatrics, and excellent play on the court, something new and unexpected happened, a Steds freshmen team brought a game to the court that no one could stop. For the first time ever, we had freshmen tourney winners! Here's what one the winners, Jack Ryan Williams, had to say about the surprising win.
St.Ed: What possessed you to enter the tourney, moreover, how did you put together your team?
Williams: I suppose it is as simple as a love for not only basketball, but for athletic competition in and of itself. Brian, the Caf man, and I were also attracted to the idea of making the Zahm players look like fools on their home court.
St.Ed: How would you describe the style of your game, your personal style?
Williams: I realize that basketball is not a short man's game. As a result, I am forced to use my quick feet and agility to make a big impact defensively. I was given the toughest defensive assignment for each game. In addition, on offense, I am a three point specialist.
St.Ed: If you liken yourself and your fellow team members to NBA players, past and present, who would be who?
Williams: Jack Cafferty must be likened to Dirk Nowitzki due to his deadly mid range jumper as well as his presence on the glass. Brian Ball is a complete player, an athletic freak with real offensive ability as well as quick feet on defense. I would liken him to Derrick Rose. I have always looked up to Steve Nash myself because of his ability to shoot the three, his defensive prowess, and his knack for finding the assisting pass.
St.Ed: Winning the tourney as freshmen is quite an accomplish. It’s unheard of… What do you attribute your success to?
Williams: We have a special freshmen class in St. Ed;s with respect to athletic prowess. We were confident going and felt like we all the assets to win the whole thing; it was merely a question of team chemistry. We compliment each other very well on the court.
St.Ed: In winning, you have helped Steds reclaimed “shadow of the dome” from Zahm. What that mean to you and your Hall?
Williams: Despite our young tenures in St. Edward's Hall, we understand that it is with great honor that we were able to bring this accomplishment to our Hall. We will return next year with the full intent of retaining the "shadow of the dome." There is no offseason, not even for us freshmen hotshots.
