IT WAS an 18th birthday to remember for rising basketball star Michael Luxford.
The Hoppers Crossing resident was an integral part of the Victorian Under 20 basketball side, which claimed a National Title in a huge comeback win against New South Wales.
After being down by 13 points at half time in the final, the Victorian boys were able to turn the momentum, before running out four point winners.
Following two nail-biting defeats against New South Wales in the last two years, Luxford said it was a great feeling to get the win.
“It was a bit of a relief because they (New South Wales) have beaten us twice by one point in big games,” he said.
“It was great to be able to beat them this time and get a bit of payback.
“We are all really good mates with each other but there is a bit of a rivalry there because we still want to win as well.”
It was also a great personal tournament for Luxford who, despite being a bottom age player, was able to stamp his authority on games both defensively and offensively.
The result continues an outstanding few months for the point guard, who was also part of the victorious Caulfield Grammar team at the 2012 Australian Basketball Schools Championships.
Caulfield went through the tournament undefeated, winning the final in overtime against Canberra-based school Lake Ginninderra.
Again, Luxford was a star throughout the tournament, scoring 48 points in the first game and averaging over 30 points per match throughout the event.
He also led the tournament in total points scored with 211 as well as in total three point shots made and assists.
“I trained pretty hard for the School Championships so I was really happy with how I went,” Luxford said.
“I finished school three weeks before they started and I was just training every day and it paid off for that and for the Nationals as well.
“It was a great feeling to win in overtime. The crowd is packed and they are really into it and it is just a massive thrill.
“All that experience all around the world has really helped me with that.”
There will be no easing off for Luxford who will be kept busy by school and club basketball.
He is also hoping to be in consideration for the Australian Under 20 side as a bottom age player.
