by Malcolm Butler
When Todd Martinez looked at his bench Friday afternoon during action at the St. Frederick’s Tournament, the first year Cedar Creek head coach didn’t see much in the way of subs.
Cedar Creek, dressing only seven players due to a multitude of reasons, was unable to overcome the short bench as it fell 47-39 to Family Community Christian School (FCCS).
The Cougars trailed 23-17 at halftime, got as close as 25-22 early in the third quarter on a Cam Temple layup, but were never able to take the lead in the eight-point setback.
Martinez said despite the challenges facing his young team, consisting of only one senior, he is asking his players to remember the joy of playing the game.
“I’m just asking that they relax and play basketball and have fun,” said Martinez. “I want them to trust themselves first, and then trust each other.”
The Cougars had opportunities in the loss, but an 8-of-22 performance at the free throw line in the contest stymied any true chance to mount the comeback victory.
“We have been an almost 80 percent free throw shooting team this year,” said Martinez. “In our previous game we shot 47 percent from the free throw line and today we were 36 percent.”
As the roster has shrunk due to shear attrition, Martinez is stressing to his players to not try to do too much.
“Don’t change your role or try to become a super hero,” said Martinez. “Just trust yourself and be who you are.
“We have shown growth. We want them to understand not everything is going to happen immediately. They need to give themselves some grace as you continue to grow and to work.”
Rhett Bridges scored 11 points, Temple added nine points and Paxton Burney eight for the Cougars in the loss.
Martinez said he is pleased with how Temple, his lone senior, is handling adversity.
“Cam has been amazing,” said Martinez. “He has completely embraced the leadership aspect of it. He is a tremendous kid and will be tremendous as whatever endeavor he does in life. This year will make him a better leader because of the adversity.
“It’s hard for him, and I understand that. But he has led better than I would have ever imagined. I am proud of him.”
Cedar Creek will host FCCS tonight at The Brickhouse at 6 p.m.
