On November 19 at noon, a lot of students filled the ACC Littleton campus gym for “Own the Shot,” a fast-paced 3-on-3 basketball event put on by the fitness center staff. Four student teams fought for bragging rights, but Team Mile High—Mursal, Joey, and Juami—made it through the bracket and won the title.

Derrick, a staff member at the fitness center, ran the event. He said the idea was to offer students a chance “to compete and just have fun really.” The competition brought together players of all skill levels and experience, making for a lively and welcoming atmosphere that fit with the spirit of ACC’s students, and especially its gym facility.

Mile High was in charge from the start, winning the semifinals 11–2 and setting the tone for their run. Mile High’s captain, Mursal, led the attack in that game by making several three-pointers and layups as the team played great defense. “My goal for today’s game is to win.” “Just win,” Joey stated before the event, and his play showed it.

The final round looked different. Team Tyler Wang put a lot of pressure on Mile High’s main ball handler, Mursal, after his previous performance, which had the team change their strategy. Joey took on a huge offensive role, using his strength and surprisingly good point-guard instincts to lead the offense, and took on team Tyler Wang’s big man, Simon. Mursal, on the other hand, wasn’t helpless; he quickly made a layup against the opponents’ center, remaining a threat even when he had been shut down by the opposing team. But that didn’t stop Simon from dominating inside the paint. Juami also had a real breakout game, driving hard to the basket, finishing through contact, hustling, and making plays that changed the course of the game on both ends of the court. His effect on the event became one of the most defining pieces of the event.

Students who were working out in the fitness center would sometimes stop and take a peek at the games and respond to huge plays and competitive intensity. One person who was in the gym working out stated they thought the intensity was cool, but didn’t have much to say other than how excited everyone else was.

Derrick and the training facility staff wanted this kind of involvement to happen. He said that the goal was to “give anyone who comes to the fitness center the chance to compete and just have fun.”

Mile High won the second and final “Own the Shot” tournament of the year, but the event also showed that more and more students are interested in recreation at ACC. The tournament was a fun break from the school day, with many people taking part, close games, and a great performance by Mile High. Many people hope it will happen again