The new year is kicking off, which means Benilde-St. Margaret’s intramural basketball (IBA) is back in full swing. Every January, 16 teams formed by students and teachers battle in three-on-three pickup games with hopes of winning the championship.
The league is open to anyone in tenth grade or higher and is a great opportunity for kids who don’t play varsity basketball to hoop with their friends in an organized setting. My friends and I formed a team sophomore year, as most of us didn’t have the talent to continue playing for the school basketball team. The thought of playing grown teachers and seniors grades above us was intimidating at first, but after taking down some of the top-ranked teams in the league, we solidified a playoff spot in our first season.
Although it’s intramural, there is no lack of competitiveness throughout the league. Most teams take the games very seriously, especially when bragging rights with fellow classmates are on the line. All games are self-officiated, meaning teams call their own fouls. Games can get out of hand sometimes with players arguing over calls, but it adds to the overall grit of the league.
Aside from playing with your friends, creating a social media presence and team branding are some of the most enjoyed aspects of the IBA. My team chose the name ‘Super Gremlins’ after a hit song by Florida rapper Kodak Black. Our Instagram account, @super_gremlins_iba, features weekly posts and updates, oftentimes featuring Kodak Black’s music to fit the persona of the team. Most teams join in on the Instagram fun, including League Commissioner and BSM gym teacher Mike Johnston.
On top of organizing league play, Johnston competes alongside the teacher team, which has been dominating the tournament in recent years. Most of their success can be attributed to former Minnesota Gopher basketball player and BSM Basketball head coach Damian Johnson. He stands at six foot seven and is notorious for catching alley hoops over unsuspecting student players. Competing against a former professional basketball player isn’t easy, but the skill difference between teams leads to more excitement and major upsets within the league.
I recommend that anyone interested in basketball join the IBA. It’s one of my favorite extracurriculars at BSM, and other schools should incorporate it. No matter your skill level, it’s a great way to get involved in the BSM community and meet new people who share a love for basketball.