Making the extra pass is a staple of winning basketball programs regardless of the level of play.
The Bellevue Bulldogs men’s basketball team displayed their efficiency both offensively and defensively in a 76-44 win against the Whatcom Orcas on Jan. 28 at Bellevue College. Bellevue improved its overall record to 19-2 (6-0 league) with the win. The Bulldogs are in sole possession of first place in the Northwest Athletic Conference North Division and are on a 10-game winning streak.
Bulldogs’ sophomore guard Jalen Ward, who finished the game with a team-high 15 points and six assists, said the Bulldogs team chemistry is the reason for their success. The Bulldogs finished with 14 assists and five Bulldogs players scored in double figures against the Orcas.
“The unity on this team brings us together. We like to share the ball. When you bring that continuity to the table, it enables us to play better and better each game,” Ward said.
Bellevue head coach Jeremy Eggers said the 2014-15 Bulldogs basketball team is special.
“They’re so fun to coach. They like each other, play together and it’s just good team basketball. It’s about as good of a team brand of basketball I have had in my 12 years here as a coach,” Eggers said. “It’s unique to have that great of team unity.”
Ward said the team bond was built months before the 2014-15 season officially kicked off with its October practice sessions.
“It all started with our open gyms in the summer. Most of us went through summer league together. Everybody showed up every day to work hard and get better,” Ward said. “We have a mindset that we will never be satisfied no matter what the rankings or how many games we’ve won in a row. We will just never be satisfied.”
Eggers said the Bulldogs are amped about the final seven games remaining on their regular season schedule.
“We’re really going to find out a lot about ourselves. We got some tough games on the road coming up,” he said. “We have met some challenges so far and have done really well. We’re excited about the next month.”
Shaun Scott: 425-453-5045; sscott@bellevuereporter.com
