Turning the Furnace Pink

It’s the CJD Equipment Pink Round at the Furnace this Saturday night, as the Eastern Suns prepare to battle the Cockburn Cougars in what promises to be a high-energy night of NBL1 West action. With the stands turning pink to support breast cancer awareness, the Suns will look to light up the court in front of a passionate home crowd.

FORM GUIDE

Women
The Suns Women return refreshed after a well-earned break last week and are hungry to notch their first win of the season. After falling just short in earlier rounds, the team will be looking to channel their renewed energy into a strong showing. Cockburn, however, come in hot, sitting undefeated at the top of the table (5-0) after a commanding 73-59 win last week over the Perth Redbacks.

Men
The Men have had a tough run, dropping their last four games, but will look to bounce back at home. Despite this, they currently sit above the Cougars on the ladder. Cockburn picked up their first win of the season last round in a gritty 3-point victory over the Redbacks, so both sides will be desperate to build momentum.

LAST TIME THEY MET

Women – July 12, 2024
Suns 78 – Cougars 131
It was a tough outing last season against the reigning champs. The Suns competed well in the first half before a brutal third quarter saw the Cougars pull away with a 44-point quarter.

Top Performer:
– Tiahna Sears: 21 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal

Men – July 12, 2024
Suns 92 – Cougars 83
The Suns closed their 2024 home campaign on a high, leading at every break and finishing strong, cementing a 9 point victory.

Top Performer:
– Marek Nelson: 21 points, 14 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals

ONES TO WATCH

Women
Watch for MVP performers Olivia Berry and Karly Murphy to lead the charge. Berry’s presence and Murphy’s dominance on the glass will be key. Keep an eye out for recruit Yume Knoll, whose IQ will make an impact, and co-captain Jaymee Firkins, whose hustle and toughness set the tone.

Men
Captain Lewis Thomas will be pivotal in front of the home crowd, bringing leadership and stability to a team eager to rebound. Expect him to rally the squad with a gritty, high-effort performance as they look to snap the losing streak and claim the Pink Round victory.