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IMG Academy
Every season has a goal. When the season ends, there is always a lesson to be learned. Both the boys and girls IMG Academy basketball programs had the same goal in the Geico High School National Tournament—play to win. Four games later, both teams walked away with pride and a greater understanding of who they have become as players.
After winning the championship a few years back, the boys team sought another big victory. With seven senior players, Coach McAloon wanted them to play for themselves. “Winning is not easy, ” Coach explains. “There’s a lot of teams out there that have talent. It’s about basketball, but at the same time it’s about you and your growth and how we can help you be the best version of yourself.”
IMG came out with a commanding 76-51 victory over La Lumiere in the first round. However, these student-athletes knew what was waiting for them—another bout against a familiar opponent, Monteverde. “We played them two times this past year and won both games,” says Eric Dailey, Jr., senior power forward. “This is our second chance, and this is our last chance for a lot of us.” Ready to watch what went down in the tournament? Press play.
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This year marked the first time the girls bracket would include a play-in game, as well as the first time IMG Academy was selected to compete. “Winning is our only goal,” explains Shay Mercer, senior guard. “Our goal wasn’t just to go to GEICO, it was to win GEICO.”
The girls’ season was hit with a minor setback, but they pushed through and made it to the tournament. When game time arrived, they showed everyone why they deserved to be there. “Our first game, we knew what we were going into,” says Coach Shell Dailey. “Everybody was on the same page. It was fun to watch, and it was fun to be a part of.”
As the fifth seed moving on to the next round, the girls had to face off against top-seeded New Hope. Ready to see how IMG finished off the tournament? Full video below!
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While neither team traveled back to Bradenton with a trophy, they certainly came back with pride and excitement for what's next. “In life, you’re going to have wins and losses,” says Eric Dailey, Jr. “Preparing for something as big as that and losing is only making you stronger for your next journey.”
Watch these videos to see how the IMG basketball program finished out the season as well as the lessons they learned along the way. To sign up for a basketball camp or another youth program, check out the links below.
