Before I start disbanding the team and scouting players, time for the end of the semester report card! Let's take a look at how our boys have been performing individuall. Let's break them down by front court and back court.
Front Court
Phua De Keong
Our most reliable player, started all 9 of the games so far. He leads our team in rebounds, pulling down 10.2 rebounds per game. He was impressive on the offensive front early on in the season, averaging 17.5 points in the first 4 games, however his shot has deserted him in the second half of the season, as he only hit 5.4 points per game. Even then, he still completes the season averaging a double-double (10.8 PPG, 10.2 RPG).
Kok Loong An
I exiled him from the U21 after having poor game shape due to his manager's insistence on playing him for 3 games a week (even scrimmages). Thankfully after one season of persuasion, his manager finally conceded, and boy has he not looked back. He started 3 of the last 5 games, and was a valuable asset on offense. He put on a great show against Portugal U21 and Bosnia & Herzegovina U21.
Nathan Macklin
Finishing behind Ang An Da and Chua How Feng in the scoring charts last season, everyone believed that Nathan was in for a breakout season. Being able to guard from 1 through 5, Nathan Macklin was the best two way player of the team. However, game shape issues started to hamper his progress near the end of his season, and he became a non-factor to us. While he failed to challenge the all-time scorers list, he will always be remembered for his great performances, particularly that double-double against Scotland U21.
Li Wai Soon
So young, yet so talented. He was only called up after a void was left in our team after the opening day scrimmage. However, he certainly did not disappoint. With 4 starts in 8 games to his name, he was solid at the post and produced for us when we needed him to. He was also red hot in the game against Ecuador U21, blocking 6 shots and grabbing 23 rebounds to make it into the top 10 game high rebounding record for our U21.
Loh Ah Heng
He was added in to increase our depth, and he fit in that role perfectly. Although he didn't stand out in any way, but he was there when we needed him, playing 6 games and starting 2.
Loo Rong Liang
Called up at the same time as Li Wai Soon to address the shortage at the post. Although often relegated to a bench role behind Li and Phua, he still managed to put up some exciting performances, particularly in the game against Pakistan U21. We are definitely looking towards having a solid double-L twin tower frontcourt in two season's time.
Yau Kim Hui
A last minute callup at the end of the season to feature against Pakistan U21, so he has only 1 cap under his belt. His projected build is somewhat similar to Nathan Macklin, Phua Tse Heng, and Fong Kum Hui. Let's see how he pans out in the following season.