jordanmillsblog

[jordanmillsblog]

T-BIRDS KEEP SOARING TO 6-0 RECORD/BIRDS NEST GETS A MAKEOVER

What’s going on High Button sports fans? I’ve got lots of Thunderbird news to cover since you last heard from me, which I will get into shortly. Before I do, I wanted to mention our latest partnership with The Birds Nest podcast. The boys at High Button are looking to take our content to the next level and we figured what better way to do that than to partner up with the already existing podcast covering the Thunderbirds. Essentially what this will entail is bringing the podcast on to our network, which will give them access to all the audio and video equipment. Of course that's not all, the partnership will also allow the show to grow and keep growing. We will have access to player interviews for the show, and it just gives the fans a little more insight on the NLL and lacrosse in general around Nova Scotia. That's where I come in; I plan to fill the show with not only Thunderbird guests, but local lacrosse talent as well. I think my experience as well as my connections with players, referees and coaches will bring us more and more guests ultimately reaching more fans. I look forward to being on the show and talking lacrosse with our listeners and take this podcast beyond our expectations! Find us on social media on all the platforms now and follow along for updates on the T-birds, lacrosse news and whatever else comes our way. Tyler, Dean and myself at The Birds Nest along with our super producer and High Button founder Belly are excited to take the show to the next level. Check out our latest episode out now and stay tuned for more episodes weekly.

Moving to the lacrosse floor - The T-Birds are still undefeated (6-0) with wins over San Diego at home back on January 18th, and another gutsy come from behind win on the road in Calgary over the Roughnecks this past Saturday. Both wins saw the Thunderbirds battle back after getting down at different points in the game. Goaltender Warren Hill was an absolute wall against San Diego holding the Seals to just five goals with an incredible 57 save performance. Down 5-4 in the third quarter, Halifax forward Kyle Jackson fired a blast past San Diego net minder Frankie Scigliano to tie the game up. That's when Halifax’s Stephen Keogh took over. Notching a natural hat-trick in the last 10 minutes, Keogh solidified the win in front of the home crowd in style. Halifax Captain Cody Jamieson found Keogh with some beautiful passing making it all that more beautiful. “I was just trying to get open, Jammer found me a couple times with some great passing and the ball just started falling in towards the end” said Keogh after the game. He also touched on the stellar defense and goaltending the team displayed to pull out the win. “(Hill) he’s been great, he’s had a great season so far, he held us in it, I think we should always win when we hold a team to five.. team defense played awesome and Warren held us in it.”

Halifax would take that momentum on the road as they then travelled west to take on the Roughnecks at the Saddledome. The first of two back to back road games as they will make a stop in Toronto to battle the Rock on the 31st. Finding themselves in a hole for most of the first half, the purple and orange got right back to doing what they do best, finding ways to get W’s. With the team down 6-3 at half time, Thunderbird captain and league superstar Cody Jamieson got the comeback rolling by completing his hat trick early in the third quarter. This would spark a nine-goal outburst in the third from the T-Birds with a hat trick from Stephen Keogh in the third alone, finishing the game with a very impressive five tallies. Rookie star Clarke Petterson would also notch a hat trick and two assists in the 15-12 win while Ryan Benesch had two goals and an assist and Mike Burke with five helpers. Goaltender Warren Hill came up with 32 saves on 44 shots in the win making some huge saves late. Face-off specialist Jake Withers had another very impressive performance at the X going 27 for 32 while scooping up 12 loose balls in the process.

This team continues to show resiliency no matter the situation, they bear down when they have to and score huge goals in huge moments to keep the undefeated streak alive. Everyone seems to be buying in which is so crucial to any championship pedigree team. Let's keep this momentum going as we take on the Toronto Rock (3-2) Friday night in Toronto. The game can be streamed on Bleacher Report Live, face-off is at 8:30 pm AST.

Exciting times at High Button Sports and this is just the beginning. Be sure to catch Tyler, Dean and myself on the Birds Nest Podcast weekly for break down of the games, player interviews and some Nova Scotia lacrosse personnel as well. I promise we wont disappoint. Feedback is much appreciated and welcomed. That's all I’ve got for now Thunderbird fans. Until next time; it’s Millsy signing off again,  thanks for scrolling.

[jordanmillsblog]

THUNDERBIRDS TAKE DOWN MAMMOTH IN RESILIENT HOME WIN-IMPROVE TO 4-0

The Thunderbirds put their perfect 3-0 record on the line Saturday night as they welcomed another one of the NLL’s best Colorado Mammoth (3-1) to the Scotiabank Centre. Despite getting off to a little bit of a slow start, going down 4-0 early, the purple and orange rallied back scoring three of their own. Thunderbirds star D-man Graeme Hossack (Unassisted) got the scoring started in the first quarter followed by goals from Cody Jamieson (Burke) and Stephen Keogh (Jamieson, Burke). The Mammoth would score one more before time expired in the first; leaving the T-birds trailing 5-3 after 15 minutes.

Colorado’s Ryan Lee would complete his hat trick early in the game putting the away squad up 7-3 halfway through the second quarter. The quick scoring didn't stop the Thunderbirds once again as this sparked goals by Brad Gillies (Hill), Petterson (Benesch, Jamieson) and Eric Fannell (Burke) closing out the first half only trailing 7-6.

Eric Fannell (Jackson, Burke) would strike again for his second of the game very early in the third quarter, tying the game at seven. Colorado would grab the lead again only briefly, but goals from Cody Jamieson (Burke, Jackson) and Ryan Benesch (Petterson) would give the T-birds a one goal advantage going into the final quarter.

Thunderbirds star lefty and league veteran Ryan Benesch continues to make history this season scoring his second of the game to move himself 9th all time in NLL goals, passing Lewis Ratcliff.  It also gave his squad a two goal lead in the fourth quarter. Halifax’s Chris Boushy (Unassisted) would add to the lead minutes later scoring his first of the season on a great individual effort. Colorado’s Jeff Wittig potted his second of the game with 40 seconds remaining to pull the Mammoth within two, but with only 11 seconds remaining Graeme Hossack (Unassisted) would seal it with his second of the game. The empty net tally is Hossack’s fifth of the season. With the 12-9 come from behind victory, Halifax remains unbeaten with a 4-0 record and on top of the NLL.

Halifax Goaltender Warren Hill made 48 saves in the win and also added an assist. Face-off specialist Jake Withers won 17 out of his 25 attempts at the X while also collecting 17 loose balls. Forward Mike Burke also had a top notch performance, tallying 5 assists.

I spoke with Cody Jamieson after the game; the Thunderbird Captain touched on what he thought was key in staying patient and buckling down when his team went down 4-0 early.  “It’s a long game, in lacrosse it's not uncommon to score 5 or 6 goals in a quarter, you just have to focus on it not happening every shift, and take it one shift at a time”.  The Thunderbirds certainly did just that, showing their team’s resiliency in the process.

Halifax is back in action this Saturday at home against the San Diego Seals (1-3) as they look to stay hot. Make sure to grab your tickets and come support the squad on the quest for 5-0.

Also be sure check out High Button Sports Behind The Scenes video as I take you on a little tour of what it’s like to cover the team. You can find it on all High Button Sports social media platforms. Until next Saturday, it’s Millsy signing off. Thanks for scrolling.

[jordanmillsblog]

THUNDERBIRDS KEEP SOARING, REMAIN PERFECT: A TWO GAME RECAP

Alright High Button Sports fans, I’ve got a lot to cover as there has been two Thunderbird games since my last round up. Santa Claus was coming to town and my three daughters kept me busy to say the least. With that said I’m back in front of the computer to break down the last two contests.

Halifax moved to 3-0 on the season with a 14-12 win over Rochester on December 21st and a 15-10 road win over the Buffalo Bandits last Saturday night (December 28th). Halifax and New England are now the only teams left undefeated, both sitting at 3-0. I don't think we could have asked for a better start to the first season.

The Rochester game may have been the second game of the inaugural Thunderbird season but it was a night of firsts as well. First NLL game for rookie sensation Clarke Petterson and he did not disappoint. The Cornell product tallied his first career hat trick and added two helpers in the teams come from behind 14-12 win.  League veterans Ryan Benesch and Cody Jamieson also had tidy nights on offense each putting up six points (2g 4a). Stephen Keogh added three goals and two assists and the two time NLL Defensive Player of the year Graeme Hossack added two goals and an assist from the back end.

Halifax got out of the gates hot similar to game one against New York as Cody Jamieson started the scoring just 19 seconds in. Rochester was looking to have none of that, scoring the next three goals before Thunderbird star Ryan Benesch scored his first of the game. Rochester’s Dan Linter would score late in the first quarter to give the Knighthawks a 4-2 lead at the end of the first. Halifax responded well in the second quarter tallying four goals from Austin Shanks, Graeme Hossack, Cody Jamieson and Stephen Keogh. The Knighthawks sniped three of their own, coming from the sticks of Shawn Evans, Curtis Knight and Phil Caputo. The third quarter was all T-birds, outscoring Rochester 6-1 to put them up 12-8 heading into the final frame. Goal scorers in the third were Keogh (2), Benesch, Hossack, and Petterson with his first two career goals. Petterson would complete the hat trick quickly in the fourth quarter with a beautiful behind the back shot off a great feed from Stephen Keogh. Mike Burke would also score for Halifax in the fourth but it was Rochester putting on a late push with goals from Pat Saunders and Holden Cattoni. The late two goals were not enough however as Halifax held off the last minute charge to secure the 14-12 victory. Goaltender Warren Hill stopped 32 of 44 shots in the win. A great holiday send off to the fans before returning to the home crowd January 11th.

High Button Sports spoke to rookie Clarke Petterson after his season debut and credited his teammates for keeping him poised out there. “Before the game they just told me to stay calm and to do my thing.” He also stressed the importance of staying in the moment “trying to not get too high or to get too low”. He did just that, the young stars five-point performance earned him NLL Rookie of the week honours.

A special milestone was also celebrated by one of our own as the left handed sniper Ryan Benesch moved to 9th all time in NLL scoring. His 1,014 NLL points moved him past Mark Steenhuis on the list and Benesch isn’t done yet. Congrats to Ryan as that is quite an accomplishment!

That brings us to this past Saturday where Halifax took on Buffalo for their first road battle of the season. In front of a packed house of over 13,000, the home team quickly got up 2-0 with goals from Dhane Smith and Josh Byrne. Halifax would then score four goals in just over five minutes (Jamieson (2), Fannell, Petterson) before two late goals by the Bandits (Mackay, Weiss) to end the first quarter knotted up at four. The entire second and third quarters was all Halifax outscoring Buffalo 10-1. The Bandits seemed to wake up in the fourth quarter out scoring Halifax 5-1 in the final frame. Ultimately the damage was already done and Halifax came away with a huge 15-10 road win to stay undefeated. Warren Hill had another solid performance between the pipes stopping 39 out of 49 shots. Defender Jake Withers was very impressive at the X winning 22 of 28 face-offs taken. Goal scorers for Halifax in the road win are as follows:

Benesch 3G 3A

Jamieson 3G 2A

Burke 2G 6A

Keogh 1G 4A

Hossack 1G 1A

Jackson 1G 4A

Fannell 1G 1A

Shanks 2G 1A

Petterson 1G 2A

Benesch and Jamieson are off to very hot starts with 15 and 14 points in three games respectively and both are in the top 15 in league scoring. Our offence and top power play unit is firing on all cylinders and we are getting strong contributions offensively from the back end. All of that mixed with the stellar goaltending and gaining possession off of most face-offs thanks to Withers, we have a well oiled machine on our hands from top to bottom in Halifax.  

The Thunderbirds will celebrate the New Year with a bye week and get right back in action at home at the Scotiabank Centre on January 11th. They will host one of the west divisions’ top teams the Colorado Mammoth (2-1). The Mammoth lost in week one to Saskatchewan, but followed it up with wins against Calgary and Georgia. Be sure to get out to see this one as two of the leagues top teams go head to head and Halifax looks to remain unbeaten. High Button Sports will be there for more live tweets, video and post-game reactions, make sure to follow along.

Until then I want to wish all the High Button family a Happy New Year, 2020 here we come. Stay tuned for more. It’s Millsy signing off again, thanks for scrolling!

[jordanmillsblog]

THUNDERBIRDS DOWN RIPTIDE 12-4 IN SEASON DEBUT

The wait is finally over; the moment all of Nova Scotian lacrosse fans have been anxiously anticipating is here. Saturday marked the first game of the inaugural Thunderbird season and the Scotiabank Centre was an ELECTRIC factory. The NLL’s two newest teams battled head to head but ultimately it was the home squad coming out on top. The Thunderbirds cruised to a 12-4 victory, making the wait that much better.

After an unbelievable pre game light show and some pretty cool pyrotechnics, Halifax came out of the gates hot as Jake Withers buried the first shot of the game ten seconds in. That set the tone for the first quarter as the Thunderbirds started scoring fast and furious. Austin Shanks put up two goals while Fannell, Benesch, Burke and Gillies all added singles to put the Birds up 7-0 at the end of the first quarter. Goaltender Warren Hill made some incredible saves in quarter one to keep New York off the board.

Wasting no time, the Thunderbirds struck early in the second quarter as well. Kyle Jackson made it 8-0 just 34 seconds into the second frame as he made a beautiful dive through the crease, taking fans out of their seats. The pace seemed to slow down after that with just one more goal scored by Halifax, Eric Fannell’s second of the game. The first pick in this years NLL Entry draft was New York’s Tyson Gibson and it is only fitting he would score the first goal in Riptide franchise history. Warren Hill had another monster quarter in the pipes only allowing New York to get two past him. Shots at the half were 28-15 in favour of Halifax with a 9-2 lead.

Both teams defense shined in the third quarter seeing only one goal scored with one second remaining.  A beautiful quick stick snipe from New York’s Dan Lomas made it 9-3 to start the final quarter. Credit to Riptide Goaltender Alex Buque for stopping all shots he faced in the third quarter, after giving up 9 on 28 shots throughout the first two quarters.

The purple and orange got back on track in the fourth and final quarter. Cory Becker opened the scoring in the fourth to make it 10-3. New York’s Dan Lomas got his second of the game shortly after for the Riptide’s fourth goal. Halifax’s Stephen Keogh would add two of his own late in the game to seal the first ever Thunderbird victory 12-4. Final shot totals were 61-44 in favour of Halifax. Unbelievable showing by Warren Hill in nets.

Thunderbird captain Cody Jamieson had a great showing in his first game in Halifax, putting up two assists. Jamieson is ultimately focused on getting better however.

“This group right here was amazing tonight, our goal is to get better week in and week out…by the end of the year we hope to be at the peak, and this was the start.”

What a great start it was. This was also the start of something amazing in Halifax. Something the city can get behind and support and hopefully grow a winning culture. The crowd was loud and it’s only going to get louder. If you weren’t at Saturday’s game, do yourself a favour and get to the next home game on December 21st at 7pm as the Rochester Knighthawks come to town. High Button Sports will be there and you should too. Be sure to follow @thehighbutton on Twitter for Thunderbird updates and all other local and professional sports content. Until next time, it’s Millsy signing off. Thanks for scrolling.

[jordanmillsblog]

THUNDERBIRD INTER SQUAD GAME RECAP/FINAL ROSTER ANNOUNCED

Welcome back HB sports fans! There is certainly a buzz around Halifax as we finally got to see our Thunderbirds up close and personal.  So if you've read any of these blogs before, you’ll know I’m here to basically just ramble on about it. What an unbelievable feeling walking into Scotiabank Arena; looking down and seeing the ice covered over and the beautiful new turf rolled out just perfectly. Talk about a pinch yourself moment. As a kid growing up and being in love with lacrosse, the NLL just seemed so far away. I think I’m speaking for all the fans of lacrosse in Nova Scotia when I say Friday night was pretty surreal. This is monumental for lacrosse here on the east coast and to see so many familiar faces experiencing it as well just made it even better.

Before I even get to Friday night though, I wanted to mention the Thunderbirds success away from Halifax during training camp. The T-Birds played two exhibition games last weekend in Six Nations, Ontario and came away with two W’s. Very decisive W’s might I add, beating up on New England 19-9 on the Saturday, and much of the same against Georgia on Sunday with a 21-14 final. I tweeted out the results Sunday night after the final game had concluded. I think they were saving their best show for the hometown fans though!

So as I mentioned in my last Thunderbirds round up, Friday night was an inter squad game which featured what are sure to be Thunderbird mainstays; along with everyone else battling for a roster spot. The teams were selected via draft by team captains Graeme Hossack (Team Orange) and Cody Jamieson (Team Purple). The game was free to the public in hopes to draw in as many fans as possible, and Halifax, you did not disappoint. With nearly 5,000 in attendance, lacrosse fans new and old welcomed the NLL and the Thunderbirds in typical Nova Scotian fashion; with open arms and drink filled hands. The fans absolutely loved it. I gotta say, the turn out certainly blew my expectations out of the water. Such a good sign for the upcoming season, I think people were really hooked right away. I was scrolling through Twitter at half time looking at the #feelthethunder hashtag; the best tweets were the ones of people who had never seen the game before. One tweet read “you can keep your hockey, now this is FUN.” That's what we need to make this huge. Tell five friends so they can tell five friends. The product on the floor is unbelievable; lets make sure everyone gets back to see it when the regular season gets going.

As for the inter squad game itself, Team Orange got out to an early lead with the first quarter ending 4-1. Team Purple wasn't going away though and pulled even at half time tying up it 6-6.  Half time was another show in itself. No Zamboni…just straight to the action. From T-shirt tosses to bubble races and the Thunderbird Dance team, half time had it all. Just another part of the fan experience that hopefully keeps everyone coming back. The third quarter was back and forth with each team scoring two goals sending the game to its final quarter knotted at eight. The final quarter of the game was tight all the way through, but with four minutes remaining, long time NLL veteran Ryan Benesch ripped an outside bomb to put team purple up 11-10 with four minutes remaining. After adding another quick one about a minute later, Team Purple went up 12-10, which would ultimately seal it. Team Orange made things interesting by getting within one goal with a second remaining. Unfortunately not enough time for Orange to get it all knotted up and Team Purple came away with the victory 12-11. Thunderbirds forward Austin Shanks spoke with High Button Sports after the game and when asked about the experience he thought they couldn't of done better for the fans. ��� 12-11 game, we couldn't have asked for a better game to give the fans their first experience…. that game was for the fans.”

If the crowds engagement was any indication, I think their first experience was an unforgettable one. Let’s hope all those fans and more get back to Scotiabank Arena on December 7th, as the squad opens up the season at home and looks to dummy the New York Riptide.

As I mentioned prior, Friday’s game and Saturday’s practice were the final legs of training camp as they needed to get the roster down to 21. Honestly I thought this might have been a separate blog but as I sit here and type this up I saw the final roster tweet pop up, so let’s go!

The Thunderbirds will carry nine offensive players, two transition players, eight defenders and two keepers. Superstars Cody Jamieson, Kyle Jackson and Ryan Benesch will manage a lot of the load on offense. Chris Boushy, Mike Burke, Eric Fannell, Stephen Keogh, Austin Shanks and 2019 first round selection Clarke Petterson will round out the rest of the offense. Colton Armstrong and Brad Gillies will work both sides of the ball as the two transition players. As for the defense, the Thunderbirds 2019 second and third round selections Trevor Smyth and Nonkon Thompson survived the cuts and will suit up opening night on defense. Defensive staple Graeme Hossack will also be protecting the house alongside James Barclay, Cory Becker, Scott Campbell, Luc Magnan and Jake Withers. Finally, goaltenders Warren Hill and Peter Dubenski will be the tandem between the pipes to start the season.  Nova Scotia native Chet Koneczny had a good showing at camp and was named to the squads practice roster alongside Johnny Jimerson, Brandon Robinson and Clay Scanlon.

One significant cut that I wanted to mention was that of Halifax native Brian Huyghue. I always like to shout out local guys and this is no different. Signing with the Thunderbirds just a week before the inter squad game, Brian is a former Halifax Hurricane and Lacrosse Nova Scotia stand out. Brian had a great showing in Friday’s game scoring a goal and having one called back due to crease violation. Although the squad ultimately released Brian, this is still so massive for lacrosse in our province. Going back to my first blog ever for High Button Sports, which mentioned the growth of the game in our province, I referenced Brian and his lacrosse accomplishments. Needless to say it was very cool to see him suit up in NLL action. He will always be a role model for young lacrosse players here.

Friday night was the start of something special in Halifax. The way the fans responded mixed with the fast paced action on the floor has all the makings for a success story right away. So now that the roster is selected and with just over two weeks until opening night, the bar has been set Halifax! Let’s double the intensity on December 7th and show road teams that Halifax will be one of the toughest and loudest barns to play in all year long! Be sure to follow High Button Sports on social media for all the Thunderbird content this season and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone next Friday. Until next time, It’s Millsy from High Button Sports signing off, thanks for scrolling.

[jordanmillsblog]

RECENT THUNDERBIRD NEWS:SIGNINGS/NLL DRAFT/SCHEDULE/ JERSEY UNVEIL

Alright HB Sports fans, it’s time to talk some Thunderbirds again. I’m fresh off the birth of my third daughter (pray for me) and ready to dive back into the goings on around the squad. There has been a fair amount of team news since the last time you heard from me and I plan to blog it all here. The Thunderbirds have inked a few more players to contract, released the full home and away schedule, drafted six new players during the 2019 NLL draft back on September 17th and most recently unveiled their home and away jerseys they will be wearing for their inaugural season. Well what do ya say we get caught up then? Opening night is just over two months away!

The Thunderbirds will open their season at the Scotiabank Centre on Saturday, December 7th against the New York Riptide. They are then back home the following Saturday against Rochester. The majority of the games will be Saturday nights with the odd Friday night or Sunday afternoon game. I will post a picture of the full schedule below. I have a feeling the Thunderbirds could spark a nice little East Division rivalry with Toronto. The first meeting of the two clubs goes January 31st in Toronto, followed by February 17th at home. The two teams will meet for the Thunderbirds final game of the year on April 25th in Halifax. That one should be a dandy!

Full Thunderbird schedule here:

During my last blog, I took a look at all the contracts the Thunderbirds had negotiated up until that time. Since then, they have handed out a couple more starting with the signing of defenseman Darryl Robertson to a three-year deal. Robertson, a native of Whitby, Ontario, was a part of the former Rochester squad last season. Coming into his third NLL season, look for Robertson to make an immediate impact on defense and quickly and efficiently transition the ball up the floor; a player all offensive guys love. Robertson was quoted after signing his contract that he is “unbelievably happy to be a Thunderbird for the next three years.” I’m certain the fans will be equally as happy to have you as a part of it as well.

Next up we had the signing of free agent defender Brayden Hill to a two-year contract. Hill calls Six Nations, Ontario home and is coming into his fourth season in the NLL. Drafted in the third round of the 2016 NLL entry draft by the Georgia Swarm, Hill has suited up for Georgia, Rochester and most recently in 2019, Philadelphia. Hill has also posted an impressive Junior and Senior lacrosse resume; winning back to back Minto Cups, and leading the Six Nations Rebels to this years Presidents cup. Hill is excited to get going in Halifax saying, “ I’m beyond excited to get to play for such an amazing team in an amazing city.” Such a common theme between all the guys who experience Halifax; they absolutely love it, but then again who wouldn't.

The Thunderbirds also added Roger Chrysler and 15 NLL veteran Chad Culp to Head coach Mike Accursi’s coaching staff. They have also have named John Catalano as the Thunderbird President and CEO. Catalano comes from the former Rochester Knighthawks and has a reputation for facilitating a “fun, passionate and contagiously upbeat environment.”

That brings us to a pivotal point in the off-season for every team in the league; the NLL entry draft. Held in Philadelphia on September 17th, the leagues 13 teams were busy crafting their rosters and adding future pieces. With six picks in total, the Thunderbirds added some great new faces to their roster. I will briefly take a look at each of the T-bird selections and familiarize the fans with the new faces.  

With the fifth overall selection, the Thunderbirds selected Clarke Petterson from Cornell. The Toronto native is a remarkably gifted lacrosse player; he is sure to take fans out of their seats right away. His career highlights page on the Cornell Men’s Lacrosse website is a damn novel.  The three time team captain at Cornell was the first ever sophomore captain in the program’s history. He wrapped up the 2019 campaign ranked second in the U.S. in shooting percentage and 17th in goals per game. Petterson is not only extremely talented offensively but also very versatile, having changed from defensive midfield, to offensive midfield and also to playing attack, ultimately thriving on offence. His Cornell career has put him in the top 10 for career goals and points in program history. I am really looking forward to watching this guy play lacrosse.  Head coach Mike Accursi is also thrilled to add Petterson to the offence, calling him an “elite offensive player”.

Next up, with the fourteenth selection, the Thunderbirds grabbed Trevor Smyth. The senior at Rochester Institute of Technology was named a USILA First team All-American at the end of the 2019 season. The Orangeville, Ontario native was also named the USILA Co- Long Pole midfielder of the year in 2019, his conferences “Liberty League” defensive player of the year. Smyth will undoubtedly be another great piece to and already solid defense and transition.

Those two picks rounded out the first round for the Thunderbirds. With their first  and only pick in the second round, the Birds selected Clay Scanlan 30th overall. Scanlan played the 2019 season with the Six Nations Arrows in the OJALL. He posted an impressive 35 points in 19 regular season games and seven points in three games in the Ontario Junior ‘A’ playoffs.

Jumping into the third round, Halifax selected Nonkon Thompson 38th overall. Thompson is coming off a 2019 campaign which saw him suit up for the Akwesasne Indians of the OJBLL, and also the Iroquois Nationals. Thompson put up 26 points in 20 games this season with Akwesasne with a very respectable 106 penalty minutes. He also contributed nicely to a lengthy playoff run of 16 games with 17 points. Nonkon has some fan favourite potential written all over him!

Finally, with their picks in the fifth and sixth rounds, Halifax selected Matt Dziama of UVA and Brad Fannell of the St Catherines Junior ‘A’ Athletics and the Brock University Badgers. The two picks were 68th and 81st overall respectively.  Dziama is coming off a national championship in 2019 with the University of Virginia. He is new to the box lacrosse game, but what he lacks in the experience he makes up for athleticism and competitiveness. Fannell suited up in 36 games over the past two seasons for the Athletics putting up 13 points. Fannell is known for being “a good steady defenseman who transfers the ball well” according to Head Coach Mike Accursi.

Here is a breakdown of Thunderbird picks by each round:

Well that wraps up the 2019 NLL draft for the Thunderbirds. Six selections which help the roster from top to bottom. A great mixture of finesse, skill and overall toughness.

I guess that brings us to what are these guys going to wear? The jerseys have been teased a lot leading up to this week, but on October 1st, the public was given an up close look into the new threads. HB Sports covered it of course. The Thunderbird home and away jerseys were revealed with great reception; I personally think they are very well done. The way the colour scheme is set up on the home jersey makes them so sharp. Combined with the white gloves and helmets, both jerseys are looking very clean. The away jersey is not what I expected but also very well put together. The diagonal lettering of “Thunderbirds” down the front is a great look and the white and orange combination comes together nicely. Hopefully we can “look good, play good.” We definitely have the look good part nailed.

So with all that said, I just have one more piece of Thunderbird info to recap. Congratulations to the Thunderbird players who were selected to represent their respective nations at the World Indoor Lacrosse Championships in Langley, British Columbia. The tournament ran from September 19th-29th and featured seven Thunderbirds.

Jake Withers- Canada

Graeme Hossack- Canada

Cody Jamieson-Iroquois

Kyle Jackson-Iroquois

Warren Hill-Iroquois

Brayden Hill-Iroquois

Stephen Keogh-Ireland

Six out of the seven players came home with medals as Canada defeated Iroquois 19-12 in the gold medal game. Needless to say, the Thunderbirds were well represented on the world stage.

Before I wrap this up, I just want to give another HB Sports shout out to former Halifax Hurricane and Lacrosse Nova Scotia player Alex Pace for being drafted in this years NLL entry draft. The Philadelphia Wings drafted Alex in the second round, 20th overall. Most recently playing his junior lacrosse for St. Catherine’s in the OJALL and playing collegiately for the Brock Badgers; Alex is another extremely gifted Nova Scotian player continuing to put us on the map. Congratulations Alex!

Well I think that just about touches on everything since last time. As I said, the season is only two short months away so be on the look out for more! I’ll be pumping out one a week starting December 7th. With hockey back again and the NBA and NLL just around the corner; you can expect some pretty awesome content this year brought to by the boys at High Button Sports! Stay tuned sports fans. It’s Millsy signing off again, thanks for scrolling!

[jordanmillsblog]

NOVA SCOTIA LACROSSE WRAP UP/THUNDERBIRD SIGNINGS

What’s up High Button Sports fans? I can’t believe it's the middle of August as I sit here and type this up, but here we are. The summer is flying by and another Nova Scotia lacrosse season has come and gone. Obviously, the ECJLL and the NSSLL have crowned their respective champions since you last heard from me so I don't plan to spend too much time there. I will recap those finals quickly before transitioning into the signings that our Halifax Thunderbirds have been up to in the last three weeks. The Thunderbirds are doing great work here in Halifax already, to familiarize themselves with the city and the fans. With that said, I am going to try to do my best to keep the fans informed with any T-Bird news that comes my way. Presented to you on the best platform for all your local and professional sports needs of course. HIGH BUTTON SPORTS. Well, here we go. Buckle up.

The ECJLL final as I touched on in my previous blog was played between the Dartmouth Bandits and the Sackville Wolves. The first two games of the best of five went in the Bandits favour, putting the Wolves backs against the wall for game three at Shearwater Arena. A one-goal lead for the Wolves with 12 seconds remaining would still not prove to be enough to force a game four. Forcing a turnover, Dartmouth’s Alex Bungay would transition the ball up the floor spotting Chris Malette, who would bury the game-tying goal with 1.4 seconds remaining forcing overtime. Dartmouth’s Tyson Carvery put the Bandits up by 1 with under 4 minutes to play in the overtime period with an underhand blast which proved to be all they would need, killing the remainder of the clock. By a final score of 11-10, the Dartmouth Bandits are the 2019 ECJLL Garnet Knight Cup Champions. This the Bandits fourth title in as many years and sixth since 2009. Dramatic finish to an exciting season, looking forward to next year. Congratulations to all the graduating players from all teams in the ECJLL. I hope to see you make the jump to senior!

The NSSLL finals also ended in some excitement as well. The undefeated Colby Pool Sharks ran into some determined Orangutans. Stealing the first game of the best of three 9-8, the Orangutans handed the Sharks their first lost of the season. Two nights later the Sharks showed up to even the series at 1. This time it was the Sharks turn to steal one by a score of 11-10. After a weekends rest, the two squads had one last tilt for all the marbles. One team was looking to complete a four-peat, and one was looking to complete the underdog narrative. After scoring first, the Orangutans found themselves down 2-1 quickly in the second period. I’m not sure what was said on the bench, but it seemed to have worked as the Orangutans went a 4-0 scoring run. Goals by Brad Fawson, Alex Burk, Luke Smeltzer and a timely 5-2 dagger by Jesse Magarvey ended the second frame. The addition of former Moncton Maverick Rick Canning to the Orangutans roster this year via trade proved effective as he tucked two in the third and spoiled any hopes of a comeback by the Sharks. The Orangutans put an end to the Sharks four-peat dreams by a final score of 8-4.  Also acquired via trade this season was goaltender Dirk Robertson who was a wall all playoffs long for the Orangutans. Special shoutout to Luke Smeltzer and Jasper Goodwin who led the finals in scoring with 13 points each in 3 games. A player worth mentioning on the losing side is Andrew MacNeil. A-Mac sees the floor like not many around here. His vision, lacrosse IQ and conditioning are dangerous every shift. The way he gives back to the game and his outlook on it is contagious as well.  

So that’s a wrap on the NSSLL. Keep an eye out for the Nova Scotia Privateers as they compete for the Senior B championship Presidents Cup in Montreal, Quebec beginning August 26th.  

Before I shift into the professional lacrosse, I wanted give a special mention to Dartmouth’s own Jordan McKenna.  Jordan is competing with the Orangeville Junior A Northmen for the National Junior A Championship Minto Cup in Langley, British Columbia beginning August 15th. Going into the tournament, McKenna and the Northmen are favoured to win it all. So far in Jordan’s junior lacrosse career, he has won the provincial Ontario Junior B championship, the National Junior B championship Founders Cup in 2017, an ECJLL Junior A championship in 2018 and this year in 2019  he has won the provincial Ontario Junior A championship, punching his ticket to Langley to try and take home the only one he’s missing, the Minto Cup. This kid is a complete winner and hasn't even begun his NCAA Division1 lacrosse yet. Best of luck this week at the Minto Cup Jordan! All of the lacrosse community in Nova Scotia is behind you.

We are also being represented by Team Nova Scotia at the upcoming 2019 Minor Box Lacrosse Nationals in Coquitlam, British Columbia beginning August 20th. We have teams in all divisions; Boys Peewee, Bantam and Midget and Girls Bantam and Midget.

So while another lacrosse season for Nova Scotia is mostly in the books, a new chapter of its lacrosse history starts in December with the Thunderbirds. I’ll quickly run through the recent signings that they have announced over the last number of weeks, and then I’ll wrap this one up. Let’s go Birds.

It all got started with the signing of 13-year NLL veteran Ryan Benesch at the end of July. The Thunderbirds signed Benesch to a three-year franchise contract, making him the first Thunderbird to have a franchise contract. The left handed forward is a former first overall pick in 2006 and is “one of the most prolific scorers in the history of this league.”  That was the high praise from Thunderbirds head coach Mike Accursi regarding Ryan’s ability to put up consistent, high level offense. Benesch is one of 10 players in NLL history to reach the 1,000-point plateau. Excited to have such a talented, well-known player playing for us and wanting to be here.

Next came the signing of goaltender Warren Hill to a two-year deal. Hill is coming off his first season with the organization and has spent three years in the NLL total. Warren got his first start with the Knighthawks in March last season and his first pro win was March 31stwhere he made 50 stops. His .810 save percentage was also enough to lead the NLL last year. Warren has been quoted saying “I cannot wait to experience what Halifax has to offer.”    

Forward Mike Burke was next up as he signed a two year deal to stay with the organization. Last season with the Knighthawks was a career high for Burke in goals, assists and points. Finishing up his fourth NLL season last year, Burke is “extremely excited to be a part of the opportunity to introduce Halifax to professional lacrosse.” Burke will be a nice fit to the already dangerous transition and offense.

Next up is defender Luc Magnan who signed a two-year deal on August 6th. Magnan is a native of Pine Falls, Manitoba and is another one of many players excited to get going in Halifax this winter. Owner and GM Curt Styres has been quoted saying “he pushes everyone else around him to be better.”  

Perhaps one of more important signings in regards to leadership was the signing of veteran defender Scott Campbell to a one-year deal. The 15-year NLL veteran knows what it takes to win, as he was a crucial part of the former Knighthawks 2012, 2013 and 2014 championships. His stellar defense, veteran wisdom and his ability to transition the ball quickly make Soupy a huge piece of the Thunderbird line-up and a great signing.

Most recently the Thunderbirds have signed league veteran Stephen Keogh to a one-year deal. Keogh was selected second overall in 2011 by the former Knighthawks and like Campbell was a huge part of the three-peat. He battled some injury last year but has been quoted saying he “is ready to get back out there and battle with his teammates.” Look out for Keogh to power hard to the net and be staple out there on the offensive side of the ball.

Well that's pretty much all I got for this go around, but as more Thunderbird news starts rolling in, more blogs shall be rolling out. Especially once the regular season hits; look forward to a game recap every Monday after every Thunderbird game during the NLL season. I’ve been retweeting all the Thunderbird activity as well trying to make up for the lack of actual writing. I’m busy being a dad and working, but also working on my non-existent golf game. I hope the summer is still going well for everyone, make the most of what’s left!

Until next time, it’s Millsy signing off again. Thanks for scrolling!

[jordanmillsblog]

ECJLL/NSSLL PLAYOFF RECAP AND FINALS PREVIEW

What’s up High Button fans? It’s Millsy checking in again after a little bit of break. Summer is in full swing, which means the lacrosse around here is getting better and better; so I’m back at it again to bring you up to speed.

Both the East Coast Junior Lacrosse League and the Nova Scotia Senior Lacrosse League had first round series’ wrap up last week. I am going to break them down quickly before briefly previewing the finals in both respective leagues, which start Tuesday night.

The ECJLL season was hard fought all year, but in the end only 4 teams can eventually grab those coveted playoff spots. Dartmouth grabbed the number one spot for the fourth time in four years, setting up a date with the fourth seeded New Brunswick Mavericks. This series was all Bandits as they made quick work of the Mavericks in three straight games. Games one and two were at Shearwater Arena where the Bandits took advantage of their home barn, beating up on the Mavericks 15-7 and 11-6 respectively. Sunday afternoon the Bandits hopped on the bus and headed to New Brunswick to close out the series on the road by a score of 12-8. Three games in three days for these guys in the Junior A playoffs. I know it is due to travel to New Brunswick, but that is brutal for both squads.

The second semi-final series was a doozy. The second seeded Sackville SportsWheels Wolves took on the Halifax Hurricanes who finished up in the third spot. This series was tight up until the very end with the fifth and final game needing overtime. The series kicked off last Tuesday with the Hurricanes nabbing game one on the road by a score of 12-10. The Wolves bounced back in game two the next night grabbing a 7-5 win. The Hurricanes came storming back to go one game up in the series stealing game three 10-9. The road team was the spoiler again in game four as the Wolves tied the series up with 10-6 win and forcing a fifth and final game back home in Sackville. The Sackville arena was packed with anxious fans last Wednesday for one of the best, most back and forth lacrosse game the ECJLL has seen in a while. You really can’t beat a do or die atmosphere. The Wolves were looking to re write the road team narrative and give their home crowd a huge win. Tied at seven at the end of regulation, they would then play a ten-minute non sudden death overtime period. Sackville’s Mitch Broussard put the Wolves up by one and a Lauchlin Swain empty netter with 20 seconds remaining in OT ultimately sealed the deal for the Wolves with a final score of 9-7. The road to their first ECJLL title starts Tuesday in Dartmouth.

These two teams had their battles all year, with the Bandits having won two out of the three regular season games. The third game of the season series resulted in a tie. Both teams have offensive firepower that can transition the ball and capitalize off of chances, but I think this series comes down to defense and who is able to contain whose offense better. The addition of Tyler Hinam to Dartmouth’s defense is something that can’t be ignored. Returning to Dartmouth after his Memorial cup win, Hinam brings a little something extra on the back end that the Bandits didn't have in the original three games versus the Wolves this season. League scoring leader and Wolves alternate captain Zac Carrigan is looking to cap off his incredible season with a championship, finishing the season with an amazing 98 points in 13 games. One thing is for sure; there is no love lost here. Expect hard nosed, yet skilled finesse lacrosse from both sides.

The full finals schedule is below, be sure to catch some of these games if you can, it is sure to be the best lacrosse this summer.

The Nova Scotia Senior Lacrosse league finals also start up Tuesday at the RBC centre in Dartmouth. The Colby Pool Sharks are looking for their fourth straight league title after coming off a decisive 2-0 series win in the best of three semi-final over the Twin City Arrows.  The other semi final was much closer as the Halifax Hustle and the Fighting Orangutans took their best of three down to the wire. The Orangutans sealed their finals berth with a 12-10 overtime victory in game three, with Jasper Goodwin scoring for the Orangutans with only 40 seconds remaining in overtime.  Game one of the final goes Tuesday night at 8pm. Expect a back and forth series as both teams have a lot of weapons up front who are a threat to score at anytime.  So if you have ever wanted to see some pool sharks go at it with some orangutans, now is your chance. The full schedule is here:

The lacrosse season is winding down, so get out and catch as much as you can before it is all wrapped up for another year. I will be blogging after the championships in both leagues are finished up, and then transitioning my focus to the Halifax Thunderbirds as their training camp and inaugural season approaches. So keep an eye out for all things Thunderbirds after our local lacrosse is all said and done. I hope everyone is having an amazing summer. Until next time, it’s Millsy with the High Button signing off again, thanks for scrolling!

[jordanmillsblog]

NLL EXPANSION: HALIFAX ANNOUNCES LIST OF PROTECTED PLAYERS

Photo: globalnews.ca

We are just five short months away from the start of the National Lacrosse League season; which means five short months until Halifax gets its first taste of it. During the summer however, two new teams will be busy crafting their rosters through the expansion draft on July 9th.  

On Tuesday, June 25th, each current team in the NLL submitted their list of players who will be protected from being selected in expansion. During this blog I am looking to highlight the existing NLL teams, which teams are part of expansion, and finally I will break down a few players who are on Halifax’s protected list. Ultimately I want familiarize Halifax fans with some of the players who will be suiting up for the Thunderbirds on opening night.

The National Lacrosse League was founded in 1986 and currently has 13 teams. Eight of which are south of the border. The league is comprised of an east and a west division with eight playing in the east and the other five in the west. The current eastern division is as follows:

Buffalo Bandits

Georgia Swarm

Halifax Thunderbirds

New England Black Wolves

Philadelphia Wings

Toronto Rock

This is how the current west division looks:

Calgary Roughnecks

Colorado Mammoth

San Diego Seals

Saskatchewan Rush

Vancouver Warriors

Finally, the two expansion teams are the Rochester Knighthawks and the New York Riptide. Both will play in the east division. While Halifax is a brand new franchise, they are not part of the expansion process. They are a relocated franchise taking the spot of the former Rochester Knighthawks (league member since 1995) in the east division. In doing so, all rosters, records, championships have all been transferred to Halifax. The expansion Knighthawks have a whole new look, and are under new management. I like this move personally; you get to add a pro sports franchise to an unbelievable city like Halifax, but Rochester fans get to see their team stick around, albeit some unfamiliar faces.

So with every teams protected list submitted; I wanted to take a look at a few Thunderbirds to watch out for this upcoming season. The full protected list is here:

Photo: NLL Facebook

There is no other player on this list to start with than Cody Jamieson. Selected  first overall in the 2010 NLL draft, he has not looked back in this league. Nicknamed “Jammer”, Jamieson won back to back NLL championships with the former Knighthawks taking home Champions Cup MVP each time. He also took home the league scoring title and league MVP in 2014. He began his college lacrosse at Onondaga Community College in 2007, where he lead the entire NJCAA in goals, assists and points. That season he also took home NJCAA offensive player of the year and was a first team All-American. Transferring to Syracuse University of the NCAA in 2008, he was unable to suit up for the Orange until the last couple of games of the 2009 season. He made up for lost time however, scoring 8 goals in 6 games in the playoffs including the sudden death overtime goal to seal the NCAA division I lacrosse championship for Syracuse. Jamieson received a degree in Communications from Syracuse. His Canadian box lacrosse resume is incredible as well. Playing his Junior A Lacrosse for his hometown of Six Nations, Ontario; he aided the Six Nations Arrows Express to four straight league titles. He took home the ultimate prize in Junior A lacrosse in 2007, winning the national championship Minto Cup. He was named series MVP for his efforts. The following year he racked up his most ever in junior, 59 goals and 101 points to take home league MVP and a separate award as the leagues “Most Outstanding Player.”  Jammer made an immediate impact on Senior A lacrosse. Playing once again for the Six Nations Chiefs, he became the first player ever in Major Series Lacrosse (Senior A in Ontario) to lead the league in scoring, take home rookie of the year and the league MVP all in his first season. Is that good? Being from Six Nations, Jamieson’s heritage is of the Mohawk tribe in the Iroquois Confederacy. Using lacrosse, Jamieson has been in instrumental in founding suicide prevention workshops for indigenous youth. This issue is damaging so many indigenous communities and his work deserves tremendous applause. Incredible accolades but even better work away from the game. Thank you and welcome to Halifax, Cody.

Photo: CBC.ca

The Thunderbird defense will likely be structured around Graeme Hossack. Hossack was drafted second overall in the 2015 NLL entry draft, he has played four full seasons with the former Knighthawks. In 2016 he was named to the NLL all rookie team. Following that up with an all pro second team look in 2017, and all pro first team in 2018. He also captured the NLL Defensive Player of the year award in 2018. He finished 2019 with 8 goals and 16 assists for 24 points. The Port Perry, Ontario native played his college lacrosse at Lindenwood University in Missouri. At six foot two inches and listed at 228 pounds, Hossack is an absolute presence out there and will be the staple on defense for Halifax.

Photo: Knighthawks.com

Along with Jamieson on offense, Halifax can also look to league veteran Ryan Benesch. Playing in his 13th NLL season, Benesch brings veteran leadership and scoring touch. Drafted first overall in 2006, Benesch took home the NLL Rookie of the Year in 2007 and was named to the all rookie team. He was an NLL all pro first team in 2011 and again in 2015. Splitting the 2019 season between Colorado and Rochester, Benesch tallied 35 goals and 45 assists this year. There is a reason that the Thunderbirds chose to protect the Kitchener, Ontario native; look for Ryan to put up solid offensive numbers for Halifax this year.

Photo: Knighthawks.com

Halifax protected goaltender Warren Hill. He is coming off of his second season in the NLL and was drafted in the second round, 20th overall in 2016.

Photo: Knighthawks.com

These are only four players out of 11 who were protected and will be on your game program come December. These players truly do have the ability to take you right out of your seat. Surrounded by the other pieces on the roster, I think Halifax fans will be hooked right away with product we will put on the floor immediately.

So let’s get out there and see some games, pack the Scotiabank Centre and cheer on these guys and the whole Thunderbirds team. Season tickets sound great for Christmas! Like I said it’s only five months away, but I’m not counting.

Hope everyone is enjoying the Canada Day weekend; it’s Millsy for the High Button signing off again. Thanks for scrolling.

[jordanmillsblog]

BOX LACROSSE SET TO RETURN TO CANADA SUMMER GAMES

That's right folks, you read correctly! For the first time since 1985, box lacrosse will be played on a pilot project basis during the Canada Summer Games. The biennial event will take place in the Niagara region of Ontario in August 2021, with both male and female divisions being represented.

The Canadian Lacrosse Association announced the news in mid April this year, so it isn’t exactly breaking news. Actually, the fact that I didn't mention it in my original blog about lacrosse growth is kind of a double bogey on my part. Oh well, mark it down and move on.  Consider it more blog material for The High Button! I am hoping this gets lacrosse fans fired up for the great news and lets some people know who maybe didn’t!

Lacrosse was first named as Canada’s national sport in 1859 and remained that way until 1994. It was then that Canadian Parliament passed The National Sport Act, which made hockey our national winter sport, and lacrosse, our national summer sport. So let’s let that sink in for a minute; for the first time in 35 years, our national summer sport is being played at our national summer games........partly crazy and partly sad, mostly sad.

The game of lacrosse and its roots pre date most forms of Parliament however. Going back as far as 1100 AD, lacrosse was played all throughout North America by the Indigenous people of our great land. Lacrosse was seen as a sacred game, often played as a spiritual celebration of the Creator.  Sometimes these games would last days or even weeks having up to 1,000 men on the field. I use the term field loosely, no sidelines, no boards and more often than not spanning kilometres. Lacrosse was also seen as an opportunity to settle land disputes, with bloodshed almost a certainty.

Fast-forward about 700 years, to the first organized, rule-enforced lacrosse in Canada.  A Canadian dentist by the name of William George Beers founded the Montreal Lacrosse club in the 1850’s.  Beersy, what a beauty. His attraction to lacrosse came from watching people of the Mohawk Tribe play and honour the game. He was inspired to bring lacrosse to the Upper Canada College, where he adapted the rules and eventually played it competitively.

It was in the early 1900’s that lacrosse was starting to gain some traction internationally. Lacrosse clubs started to pop up in Canada, United States, England, Australia and New Zealand.  Men’s field lacrosse was actually played during the Olympics in 1904 and 1908, both times seeing Canada take home gold. Only three countries competed in 1904, and only two in 1908. Canada was able to capture both medals somewhat convincingly, with the other nations lacking much real game experience. Three other Olympic games (1928, 1932 and 1948) allowed lacrosse as a “demonstration sport.” Since then, we have had two unsuccessful bids for the sport to re enter, once in 1996 and again in 2000. I still think we have a ways to go, based on worldwide popularity and Olympic requirements. However, lacrosse back in the Canada Games is a huge step in the right direction.  

I want to give a special shout out to the 1973 Nova Scotia Lacrosse team, who captured a Canada Games silver medal. After beating a dominant Team British Columbia on B.C. soil, the severe underdogs met another favourite Team Ontario for the gold medal. Coming up short by a score of 8-6, the over matched bluenose kids battled to the final whistle. This was absolutely massive for the game in our part of the country. Lacking both playing and coaching experience compared to their opponent, this truly was a David versus Goliath battle. The Nova Scotian goaltender Don Watts was drafted to the NLL in 1975, and is the author of almost all lacrosse goalie instructional material used today. Some of my local lacrosse mentors were on this squad as well. Great coaches like Norman Hum and David Mills, along with former NHL referee Don Koharski. The experience of adversity during that tournament undoubtedly helped them shape other young lacrosse lives down the road.

So if you haven’t checked out my blog on the growth of lacrosse in Nova Scotia, it’s definitely worth the read. But if you have, you will know we obviously have come a long way. The re-addition of lacrosse to the Canada Games however, is monumental nationally and not just provincially. Pilot project or not I know this is going to stick. So lacrosse fans in the Niagara Region and from far and wide, support this project!! Show everyone why lacrosse is our national summer game and ultimately back in the games again to stay!

A lot of lacrosse fans have wanted this for a long time. Just ask current East Coast Junior Lacrosse League points leader Zac Carrigan.

No need to shake your head anymore Zac, the sport of the future is taking the right steps.  

That’s all for now, stay tuned for more. Millsy signing off. Thanks for scrolling!

[jordanmillsblog]

RAPTORS GET IT DONE: Toronto closes out NBA Finals series 4-2 in the final game at Oracle Arena.

“See you in the Bay, Aubrey.” Those were the words from Golden State’s Klay Thompson towards Hip-Hop legend, Canadian icon and Raptors ambassador Drake following Golden State’s 109-104 game two win in Toronto last Sunday.

Drake was not in attendance for games three or four in Oakland, so while the Warriors shooting guard Thompson probably didn’t see Aubrey in the Bay Area; what he did see was his team drop both at home and head back to Toronto on verge of elimination. Setting up an electric party in Toronto the following Monday night.

Monday nights game five also marked the return of Warriors superstar Kevin Durant, who missed the previous 11 games with an apparent calf strain. Arguably the games most dominant player, KD was cleared to play by the Warriors medical team and basketball operations. The Warriors star came to play as well, going 3/3 from three point range scoring 11 points and grabbing two rebounds in 12 minutes of playing time. It looked like KD might be the x-factor that Golden State was looking for; but with 9:46 remaining in the second quarter, that proved to not be the case. While being guarded and trying to pivot, Durant immediately grabbed the lower part of his right leg, hobbling to the sidelines. After being helped off the court, and then seen leaving the arena with crutches and a boot, it was confirmed that he in fact ruptured his Achilles’ tendon and would require surgery. It has also been reported that he will miss the entire basketball season next year.

Canadian basketball fans were at the centre of controversy surrounding the injury, cheering as Durant went down. I won’t touch much on this as it has been blown way out of proportion already. It’s reactionary, that’s all it is. Adrenaline is pumping and all you want is to see Toronto win. When a player of that caliber who is trying to beat you in your building goes down; I think that reaction would have happened anywhere. When the severity of the injury came out, most basketball fans and a lot of Canadians were nauseous. Not only because this is a mans health; but because the NBA needs KD. No basketball fan wants him sidelined. So Canadians keep doing you, the world loves your apologetic asses!

Rallying around the Durant injury were Warriors stars Steph Curry and Klay Thompson. Stepping up and hitting big shots in the fourth quarter to steal the 106-105 victory in Toronto. Raps bench boss Nick Nurse was under some scrutiny as well for a time out called with just over three minutes remaining. Fans were outraged saying this time out killed the momentum that the Raptors has found late in the game. Nurse defended the call to the media citing the fact they lose that time out once the clock rolls under three minutes to play. Whether the time out was the right or wrong call, Toronto headed to Oakland for another chance at the title.

Thursday’s game six marked the final game played at Oracle Arena. The arena that has seen three championship banners raised to rafters in the last five years, will close its doors after the final buzzer. The Warriors will move to their new home, Chase Center in San Francisco, for the 2019-20 season. Obviously the Warriors were looking give their fans a win for their final send off, but the Raptors had another agenda. Coming out of the gates hot was the Raptors Kyle Lowry, putting up 11 points (3/3 from beyond the arc) in the first 2 minutes of the game. The game tightened up after that as we saw Golden State find their rhythm. The first quarter ended 33-32 with 15 points coming from the hands of Lowry. The first quarter was a great indication of how the game would go, with the half ending 60-57 Raptors.

The second half saw a lot of the same tight basketball, with no teams lead being more than six points. Tragedy struck again for Golden State however when late in the third quarter, the Warriors Klay Thompson went down holding his knee. This has been confirmed as an ACL tear. He is expected to miss 9-10 months. More heartbreak for Warriors fans. With Thompson gone, and still a whole quarter to play, the Raptors came alive. Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam stepped up and made huge plays late to ensure Toronto would fly home champions, an not for a winner take all game seven.

With 18 seconds remaining, Warriors point guard Steph Curry sinks his second of two free throws to make it a one point game. Getting the ball back, Toronto calls a time out only to lose the ball again on an out of bounds turnover. Failing to capitalize on their possession, the Warriors, with 0.9 on the clock hand the Raptors a technical foul shot and a Andre Iguodala personal foul allows them to have another two. Of course Kawhi buries all 3. This ultimately put the game out of reach, a two possession game with less than a second to play.

The milliseconds ticked down as Steph Curry launched a shot from his own end. As the ball sailed through the air, the buzzer sounded cementing the Raptors as your 2019 NBA Champions. A final score of 114-110.

It would be a travesty not to mention Kawhi Leonard. Picking up his second finals MVP, Leonard was dominant all playoffs long. He has that clutch gene and he reminds me a lot of the Tiger Woods of old, an assasin. Picking up 22 points in game seven adding six rebounds and three assists and went 7/8 from the free throw line. His “not done yet” mentality and championship pedigree rubbed off on his teammates, with everyone buying in, this truly was a team victory. This morning Kawhi is a god to Raptor fans, let’s wait and see what free agency brings.

25 years of Raptor basketball has never seen this. Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, Chris Bosh and many other Raptor greats haven’t been able get it done. It took some tough decision making to make this come together. Firing the coach of the year and trading a superstar for a better one. The Raptors management are laughing all the way back to Canada as champions.

So when Klay Thompson told Drake he would see him in the Bay, I don’t think he meant seeing Drake celebrate with the college sports team, the Toronto Raptors, with a 9-10 month recovery ahead of him. Safe to say Aubrey Graham got the last laugh.

It’s Millsy signing off again, thanks for scrolling.