IST Basketball Wins First Ever Playoff Match

The IST Ambassadors basketball team played in their first ever playoff match at the Downtown YMCA on Saturday. IST treated its adoring fans to a highly entertaining game and ended up securing their first playoff victory in overtime by four points.

The match was close throughout the contest with the lead never more than two points for either side. With IST up by two with two minutes left in the fourth and final quarter, things were looking rosy for the home side before their opponents scored a basket with just over a minute left to tie the game away. Both teams had their chances to seal victory in the last minute of regulation but some outstanding defense ensured the crowd would be treated to an extra two minutes of playoff basketball. Both teams went to their benches and with the crowd on their feet IST entered the court looking very confident.

IST came out on fire in overtime scoring a quick basket to put us in the box seat and excite the pro IST crowd. Moments later, the roof of the YMCA almost lifted when a mid court steal from Christian Elliot ended with a game sealing lay up to the delight of the sellout crowd.

There were jubilant scenes after the match with IST students, parents and coaches embracing each other mid court in a celebration never to be forgotten by everyone involved. 

The win was however soured with revelations after the match that a serious injury was suffered by assistant coach Mark Hamby as the coaches celebrated on the sidelines. Although in immense pain Coach Mark has declared himself a certain starter on the sidelines next weekend.

Thank you to all the IST parents and students who were at the games on the weekend, your support was a huge factor in getting us over the line. It would be great to see another pro IST crowd in our next playoff match. Same place at the same time. 11:15 at the downtown YMCA. Thanks again everyone and congratulations to my team, I am so proud of you all. GO IST!!!!

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