Friday Night Clash at Bendat Basketball Centre
Round two of the NBL1 West season sees the Bendigo Bank Eastern Suns head to the Bendat Basketball Centre on Friday night to take on the Perry Lakes Hawks. With the Women’s team looking to bounce back from a tough opening-round defeat and the Men aiming to build on their 1-1 start, both squads are set for an exciting matchup. Tip-off is set for 6:30 PM in what promises to be a thrilling night of basketball.
FORM GUIDE
Women
The Eastern Suns Women’s team will be looking to respond after a difficult start to the season, falling to the South West Slammers on Saturday night. Meanwhile, Perry Lakes come into this game riding high after securing a round one victory over Lakeside and looking to go 2-0 to start the season.
Men
The Eastern Suns Men’s team split their opening round 1-1, showing resilience in their double-header weekend. Perry Lakes, on the other hand, edged out Lakeside in overtime by just one point, proving they are a tough team to close out. The Suns will need to be at their best to take them down.
LAST TIME THEY MET
Women
Date: May 10, 2024
Location: Away at Bendat Basketball Centre
Result: Eastern Suns 38 – 94 Perry Lakes Hawks
It was a tough outing for the Suns, as the Hawks controlled the game from start to finish. Tiahna Sears battled hard, leading the Suns with 12 rebounds, 9 points, and 2 assists. The team will be eager to put in a much stronger showing this time around.
Men
Date: May 10, 2024
Location: Away at Bendat Basketball Centre
Result: Eastern Suns 97– 104 Perry Lakes Hawks
Despite falling short, the Suns matched the Hawks across three quarters, with only a third-quarter surge from Perry Lakes proving to be the difference. Marek Nelson was outstanding, finishing with 26 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 blocks. The Suns will take confidence from that performance as they look to flip the script this time.
ONES TO WATCH
Women
After a difficult season opener, the entire team will be motivated to step up against a strong Perry Lakes outfit. Expect a fired-up performance as they look to prove themselves in round two.
Men
Eastern Suns captain Lewis Thomas faces his former team in Perry Lakes, last playing for them in 2023, and he’ll be looking to lead from the front to secure the win. Joel Vaiangina is another former Hawk, set to face his former side for the first time since joining the Suns.
With both Suns teams eager to make a statement, this Friday night showdown promises to deliver high-intensity basketball. Be sure to follow all the action as the Suns take on the Hawks at Bendat Basketball Centre!