These boys can really play.

 
 
Ash and Kai Haemori might be built low to the ground but they are rapidly making a big name for themselves as promising members of the Perth Redbacks Under 12's Mens team.
 
Products of the Loftus Centre domestic competition, the basketball-loving brothers go to Churchlands Primary School where Ash is in Year 4 and Kai in Year 6.
 
Their study habits didn't get much of a mention during our interview- with sport, Pokemon, Skylanders (whatever that is) and time hanging out with friends dominating the conversation.
 
Kai (11) is already a veteran of the hardwood having played for four years after being initially encouraged to try basketball because his mates at school were playing the game.
 
His example inspired his younger brother to also trade a much-loved tennis racquet for a Molten.
 
"We practice nearly everyday and sometimes go down to the park with my Dad to practice manoeuvres and shooting," said Kai.
 
The family is also keen watchers of YouTube picking up training techniques and moves.
 
"My short-term goal is to do three spins, a between the legs spin and to score seven baskets in one game." said Kai whose dream is get into the NBA and finally start dunking.
 
Ash also wants to become a professional basketballer, or a bus driver, but if things don't quite go to plan then he is content to continue with his goal of beating his dad in basketball.
 
"My dad really encourages me and teaches me things I need to to work on," said Ash.
 
Dad (Shinji) also cracked the headlines in the "hero section" of the interview with Kai crediting his father with "really helping me bring my basketball along."
 
"I play basketball mainly for fun, so you can't be afraid to experiment. Whenever I learn a new move I test it out a few times at domestic and when I feel really confident I try it out at WABL. But remember -never do something just for show, only use it to get out of a tricky situation on court," said Kai.
 
Kai is the point guard in the Redbacks team and after two years experience at WABL level is considered one of the under 12's most promising players.
 
"WABL is more competitive than domestic because it is district league basketball. You get to go to their home turf and they come to yours. It's exciting to travel around and play other teams."
 
Ash has the benefit of being developed as an under age player and will get his chance to shine in the not too distant future..
 
Both boys already have great handles and equally very impressive attitudes, which will undoubtedly see them succeed.
 
And when a nine year-old tells you emphatically that "Basketball is the best sport in the whole world," who is anyone to argue.



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