One never knows what might be offered at a high school gym on a Tuesday night. One such surprise was Mineola senior Ainsley Steward going for 43 points in an amazing display of all-around offensive talent against Hawkins.

Steward had his usual share of lay-ups, often as a result of turnovers forced by the Yellowjacket defense, but he also went to work with his mid-range jumper. His quick release allowed him to get his shots off against a sizable and quick Hawkins zone defense. The soft touch of his jumper often settled in the net before falling through. 

Steward worked for those 43. He hit the boards, scoring with five offensive rebound put-backs. He also scored on back-to-back steals – one at the defensive end and one after swiping the ball away in the Hawkins back court. 

There were conversions on three inbound plays which Steward cashed in. He scored thrice in the final minute of play to draw Mineola to within three points of the lead. 

It was an amazing offensive performance that highlighted all aspects of scoring. It was only right that Steward took the last shot of the game.

After Cason Peebles pulled the Yellowjackets to within one point (78-77) with 20 seconds on the clock, Steward factored into the last moments.

A controversial charging call went against Mineola as Steward drove the hoop and a three-way collision ensued.

Hawkins added a free throw, and in the very last second, Mineola had an inbound under their own basket. 

Steward cut for the left corner. The inbound pass found him and he elevated for a long 3-pointer. It was a good shot, but just tailed off, hit the iron and bounced away.

Hawkins went home with a 79-77 win. 

The final shot could not detract from what was an inspiring performance by Steward. Even in the team sport of basketball, a stellar individual performance rates applause.

The Yellowjackets share in Steward’s success, and they all deserve some applause for the game they played last Tuesday. The Yellowjackets leveraged fortitude, focus and effort to forge an epic comeback. They simply never quit.

Anyone watching the game would also note the intense competitiveness of senior post Zane Strange. Although foul trouble limited his playing time in the second half, Strange’s basketball acumen and physical activity is a centering force for the Yellowjackets. 

Following away games at Edgewood and Malakoff, the next chance to see the Jackets at home is Friday, Jan. 23, when they host Winona.