Suns Sweep Slammers to Build Momentum Heading into Final Round
The Eastern Suns made the trip to Eaton Recreation Centre on Friday night for their second last away fixture of the regular season, taking on the South West Slammers with plenty still on the line for both teams.
With just two rounds remaining in the 2026 NBL1 West regular season, the Suns delivered when it mattered most, completing a clean sweep with two impressive victories to build momentum heading into the final weekend.
WOMEN
The Suns women produced one of their most complete performances of the season, defeating the Slammers 87–50 in a dominant display.
After a closely contested opening quarter, the Suns took control in the second term before producing a blistering second half. Outscoring the Slammers 55–25 after halftime, the visitors showcased their defensive intensity and offensive efficiency to pull away for a convincing 37-point victory.
Gabriela Bronson led the charge with a sensational 30-point performance, adding 8 rebounds and 4 assists to cap off another outstanding outing.
Trista Hull was simply dominant in the paint, finishing with an incredible 26 rebounds to go with 10 points, 2 assists and 5 steals in one of the league’s most commanding rebounding performances this season.
Emma Strelein also made an important contribution in her 50th game; with 10 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals, helping the Suns control the game on both ends of the floor.
The win keeps the Suns’ finals hopes alive heading into the final round of the regular season.
MEN
The Suns men were made to work for their victory, overcoming a determined Slammers outfit to claim a thrilling 102–99 win.
The Suns exploded out of the blocks with a 36-point opening quarter before South West responded with a huge second period to take a halftime lead. The contest remained tight throughout the second half, with the Suns producing the crucial plays in the closing stages to secure another important victory.
Marley Sam once again led from the front with 26 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals in another outstanding all-around performance.
Terrandus Smith added 18 points and 5 rebounds, while Joe Cook-Green contributed 17 points and 5 assists in another composed display.
Providing a spark off the bench, Hayden Price scored 10 points in under seven minutes, making a significant impact whenever he was on the floor.
Already having secured a finals berth, the victory ensures the Suns carry winning momentum into the final round.
With so much riding on the second-last round of the regular season, the Suns delivered in impressive fashion. The women strengthened their push towards finals with a dominant road performance, while the men continued their winning form with another composed victory. With one regular season game remaining, both teams now turn their attention to finishing the season strongly and building momentum for what promises to be an exciting finish to 2026.
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