Women’s Win Caps Off Special Supporters Round as Men Fall to Redbacks
The Eastern Suns celebrated Supporters Round on Friday night; with a fantastic crowd at Ray Owen Sports Centre witnessing a split night of results, with the Suns women producing a victory over the Perth Redbacks, while the men fought hard, however went down by 10.
WOMEN
The Suns women closed out their home season in style, defeating the Redbacks 68–64 in a hard-fought contest.
After trailing by seven points at quarter time, the Suns responded brilliantly, producing a dominant second quarter to take control of the game before carrying that momentum into the third. Despite a late Redbacks fightback, the Suns held their nerve in the closing minutes to secure the victory.
Gabriela Bronson once again led from the front with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals, continuing her outstanding season.
Trista Hull recorded another dominant double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds, while also contributing 3 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks in a commanding performance at both ends of the floor.
Emma Strelein provided her trademark energy and defensive pressure, finishing with 7 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals.
The win was a fitting reward for the women’s group, who delivered in front of the home supporters on a special night for the club.
MEN
The Suns men were unable to finish the regular home season with a win, falling 92–102 to the Redbacks despite another competitive performance.
The Suns started strongly and held a five-point lead at quarter time, but a high-scoring second quarter from Perth shifted the momentum. The home side continued to battle throughout the second half but was unable to claw back the deficit.
Joe Cook-Green continued his excellent form with 27 points and 7 rebounds, leading the Suns offensively.
Marley Sam added another impressive all-round performance with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals, while Travis Fee made a welcome return from injury, contributing 11 points and 6 rebounds off the bench.
Although the result didn’t go their way, the men now turn their attention to finals after securing their first NBL1 West Finals appearance since 2019.
Supporters Round was a memorable night both on and off the court, celebrating the people who have supported the Eastern Suns throughout the 2026 season. The women’s victory provided the perfect way to thank the home crowd, while the men’s group now shifts its focus to the remaining away games and finals basketball for the first time since 2019. With the regular season drawing to a close, the Suns will look to carry the positives from the weekend into the exciting weeks ahead.
Game Recaps proudly driven by Midland Mitsubishi!