A whirlwind named Shaylee Todani brought a special kind of energy into Leilehua’s 58-49 girls basketball victory over visiting Nanakuli on Friday.
The whole first quarter was quiet, with the Mules taking an 8-6 lead. Then, things got stirred up by Todani, the junior guard who head coach Elroy Dumlao said was making her first start.
“She’s the most improved player on the team,” Dumlao said after the game. “She’s been having great practices.”
Here are some little “snapshots” of her contributions against Nanakuli.
>> Eight points in a 20-0 run that gave Leilehua a 22-6 lead.
>> Drilled her first two 3-point shots.
>> Made a steal at halfcourt and went the distance uncontested for a layup.
>> Came up with another steal that led moments later to a basket by teammate Abigail Flores.
>> Two third-quarter assists on hoops by Tywanna Abbott.
>> Two more steals and one more 3-pointer in the second half.
Up until now, Todani has been waiting in the wings. Now, she’s bordering on securing a starting spot, and possibly, becoming a factor for Leilehua in the OIA West race and beyond. The Mules (6-1) are right behind first-place Radford (6-0).
It just goes to show you that if you keep on working, you can succeed.
A great game for the home town fans. Leilehua will give Radford a run for their money the 21st of January. Nanakuli will regroup and finish strong. The oia east is looking good and will represent well.