Amidst the terrible weather that has plagued southern Alberta over the past few weeks, and despite the flood warnings on their trip to Cranbrook B.C., the Jr. Dinos are the 2005 Sam Steele Invitational Tournament Champions.

Making easy work of the competition, the Jr. Dinos disposed of Nelson, B.C., the Lethbridge Cougars U-17 and U-16 teams, and the Jr. Trojans of Calgary in the Final. The Jr. Dinos average margin of victory was an amazing 63 points over the 4 game tournament including a 47 point victory over the Jr. Trojans in the Championship game.

The Jr. Dinos began the tournament a little weary after a day of travel against Nelson B.C. After trailing 14-13 early in the game, the Dinos quickness and tenacity propelled them into the lead to stay winning the game 97-34. The Dinos were lead by the hot hand of Cam Perry who scored 30 points on 6 three pointers including hitting his first 5 in the opening half. The Dinos defense stifled Nelson in the second half as they were only able to score 12 points.

After a good night’s rest in Kimberley, the Dinos returned to action on Saturday morning against the Lethbridge Cougars. The Dinos prevailed in another dominating win, 107-42. The key to the Dinos victory was the staggering defense played by Dave Ness and Mike Haggarty on the Cougars top scorer. Forcing him out of his game, the Dinos capitilized and put the Cougars away early. The Dinos attack was lead by Brennen Fule who scored 24 points including 5 three pointers. Strong performances were also had by Logan Armstrong, and Adam Lonseth.

The next game saw the Dinos playing the Lethbridge Cougars U-16 team. In a game which featured 6 players in double figures, the Cougars were simply no match for the Dinos. The final score was 115-36. The Dinos were lead by Jared Laird, a newcomer to the squad after spending some time with the Alberta Provincial team. The 6′6″ center scored 16 points, and added 7 rebounds in the Dinos Route.

The Sam Steele Championship game saw the Jr. Dinos take on their in Calgary rival, the Jr. Trojans. After starting slow, including some sloppy play and turnovers, the Dinos lead 49-39 at the half. The second half was a completely different story. The Jr. Dinos exploded with their relentless effort, outscoring the Trojans 67-20, finishing the tournament up with a 116-69 win. The Dinos were lead by 6 players in double figures. Adam Lonseth led the way with 21 points, Logan Armstrong added 17, and Matt Urbanowski, who had an outstanding all around tournament at the point guard position, added 17 points and 13 assists. Mike Haggarty and Dave Ness once again played outstanding perimeter defense on the Trojans best player holding him to 14 points and limiting his play.

The Jr. Dinos will resume action at the Stampede Shootout in Calgary on the July 1 weekend. A special thanks goes out to all of the parents who braved the bad weather to drive to Cranbrook. Your support and committment to the team and program do not go unnoticed!