Maxwell Manu Paces Finley-Blue Boys’ Basketball

The Finley Middle School boys’ basketball “blue” team wrapped up its season last week. The 16 player team was coached Tim Madden. It included a mix of seventh and eighth graders.

“While the team ended the season with a losing record, they gained something much more valuable: resilience,” Madden said. “Their hard-fought battles demonstrated that success is not always measured in wins and losses, but in the growth and lessons learned along the way. Every game, even those we lost, became teaching opportunities to improve and form bonds with their teammates that may last a lifetime.”

The top players on the team included seventh grader William Dease and eighth graders Maxwell Manu, Harrison McIntyre and Shane Legrow.

“Maxwell Manu is a dynamic basketball player who stands out as a natural leader both on and off the court,” said Madden about the star point guard. “His basketball IQ is off the charts, allowing him to make smart decisions in crucial moments and elevate the play of those around him. Whether directing the offense or guiding teammates through challenging situations, he consistently shows the poise and confidence of a true leader.”

Dease shined at forward. “He showed remarkable growth both in skill and performance as the season went on,” Madden said. “He was a key asset for his team this year.”

McIntyre was another talented guard. “Harrison is versatile, selfless and willing to contribute to the team in any role needed,” Madden said. “

Legrow also displayed real potential at forward. “Shane is an exceptional defender, capable of guarding multiple positions,” Madden said. “His smart decision-making on both ends of the floor, combined with his intensity and aggressiveness, made him very valuable to our team.”

The most exciting game of the season game against the Finley “white” team. “Both squads displayed incredible effort and determination,” Madden said. “Max Manu led the charge for our team with a standout performance, scoring 19 points. William Dease also made a significant contribution, adding 15 points. Harrison McIntyre and Nathan Falk both played key roles, with McIntyre scoring six points and Falk chipping in eight points. The team’s collective performance was a testament to their hard work, and the win was well deserved.”

Madden was pleased with the team’s effort. “I believe we can look back on the season with pride, because they gave everything they had on the court,” he said. “They know that the loss column doesn’t define who they are. It was the effort they put into every game that truly mattered.”