Team Taiwan Elevates Fall Festival Hoops

by Matt Bailey

The annual PTA Fall Festival stepped up its game this year, transforming the outdoor courts into a hub of basketball action.

The excitement was fueled by a special appearance from four celebrated players of the Taiwan National Team: Gu Maoweijoa, Cheng Li, Wang Luxian, and Ta-Yuan Kuan. These professional athletes didn't just attend the event—they jumped right into the competition, participating in the three-point contest and later coaching student teams through the intense first-to-11 tournament.

The day kicked off with a three-point contest. Twelve participants competed, but the final round was a sharpshooter showdown between three contenders: Xavier Knopf (Grade 8), Geoffrey Wen (Grade 12), and Ethan Chiu (Grade 9). In a memorable performance, Xavier ultimately claimed the victory.

Following the contest, the Team Taiwan players coached student teams from different grades in a tournament of "first-to-11" matches.

The championship final saw a mixed grade team of HS boys against an all Ninth Grade team.

The mixed grade team secured the win with a strong final game, powered by key players:

• Aiden Chen (Grade 10) was dominant in the paint, using his size effectively.

• Max Chen (Grade 10) applied strength to overpower the opposition.

• Spencer Lee (Grade 12) showed smooth handling and sharp offensive moves.

The team, composed of at least 3 Varsity players, ran away with the victory, rightfully claiming the winning spot and bringing the basketball portion of the festival to a close.