Suns Split ANZAC Round with Strong Wins Over Lakeside

The Eastern Suns took on a double-header ANZAC Round weekend against the Lakeside Lightning and Willetton Tigers, finishing with a split result after dominant wins over Lakeside before falling short against Willetton.

The weekend was highlighted by standout individual performances, milestone moments, and ANZAC Round Medal honours for Ella Averill and Marley Sam.

WOMEN v Lakeside Lightning

The Suns women delivered a commanding performance to defeat Lakeside 78–57, setting the tone early and maintaining control throughout.

A dominant opening quarter proved key, with the Suns building a strong lead and never looking back.

Ella Averill led the way with a standout performance, finishing with 27 points and 6 rebounds to earn ANZAC Round Medal honours.

Gabriela Bronson added 15 points and 6 rebounds, while Alyssa Bowen contributed 11 points, 6 rebounds and an all-round presence on both ends.

The game also marked a special moment for the club, with Charlie Osenton making her first appearance at NBL1 level.

MEN v Lakeside Lightning

The Suns men continued their strong form with a 90–76 win over Lakeside in a high-quality performance.

A dominant third quarter saw the Suns break the game open, showcasing offensive firepower and defensive intensity.

Marley Sam starred with a game-high 35 points, adding 5 rebounds and 3 assists in a performance to claim the ANZAC Round Medal.

Terrandus Smith added 21 points, while Hayden Price provided valuable minutes with 9 points and 6 rebounds.

The game also saw Joshua Bowen make his debut, recording his first NBL1 minutes.

WOMEN v Willetton Tigers

Backing up the following day, the Suns fell 73–82 to Willetton in a competitive contest.

A high-scoring opening quarter kept the Suns in the fight, but Willetton gained control in the second to create separation.

Alyssa Bowen produced a dominant double-double with 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Emma Strelein had a huge defensive impact with 7 steals to go with 13 points.

Gabriela Bronson again contributed strongly with 15 points and 8 assists, continuing her consistent form across the weekend.

MEN v Willetton Tigers

The Suns men were unable to complete the weekend sweep, falling 87–99 to Willetton.

After a competitive first half, Willetton gained the ascendancy through the second and third quarters, with the Suns fighting hard to stay within reach.

Terrandus Smith led the way with 24 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists in a strong all-around performance.

Marley Sam backed up his previous outing with 29 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals, while Lewis Thomas filled the stat sheet with 9 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals.

The game also marked a milestone moment, with Cayden Ivankovich making his NBL1 debut.

A competitive ANZAC Round weekend saw the Suns produce two dominant performances against Lakeside, highlighted by ANZAC Medal-winning efforts from Ella Averill and Marley Sam. While results against Willetton didn’t fall their way, both teams showed resilience across the double-header. With strong individual form and valuable contributions across the roster, the Suns continue to build as the season progresses.

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