Eastern Suns vs Willetton Tigers
Friday Night | Willetton Stadium

The final game of the 2026 NBL1 West regular season has arrived, and there is plenty on the line as the Eastern Suns travel to Willetton to take on the Tigers.

With finals positions still to be decided, both Suns teams head into the final round full of confidence after impressive victories over the South West Slammers. The Women remain in the hunt for a finals berth and will be looking to keep their season alive, while the Men have already secured a finals appearance but know a victory could be the difference between travelling in Week One or hosting a home final.

FORM GUIDE

The Suns Men enter the final round sitting fifth on the NBL1 West ladder after defeating the Slammers last weekend, while the Women climbed to six wins for the season and remain 10th, with everything still to play for.

Willetton’s Men currently sit seventh and will also be chasing a victory to secure a home final. The Tigers Women are 12th on the ladder, with both Willetton teams looking to bounce back after losses to Rockingham last weekend.

With finals implications across both contests, expect two desperate teams leaving everything on the floor.

LAST TIME THEY MET

Women

The Suns Women fell 82–73 in a competitive contest when the teams last met.

Alyssa Bowen was outstanding with a 14-point, 14-rebound double-double, while Emma Strelein produced a solid defensive performance, collecting 13 points and seven steals. Gabriela Bronson again showcased her consistency with 15 points and eight assists as the Suns battled hard throughout.

Men

The Suns Men were unable to complete the weekend sweep, going down 99–87 despite another strong offensive display.

Terrandus Smith led the way with an outstanding all-round performance of 24 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists. Marley Sam continued his brilliant season with 29 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals, while Lewis Thomas contributed across every area with 9 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals.

ONES TO WATCH

Gabriela Bronson and Trista Hull enter the final round in terrific form after combining for 40 points and 34 rebounds against the Slammers last weekend. Their leadership, toughness and ability to control both ends of the floor will again be crucial as the Women look to keep their finals hopes alive.

For the Men, the return of Jordan Simpson was a welcome sight last weekend, after playing his first minutes back from injury against the Slammers. Having missed the previous meeting with Willetton, his presence adds another important dimension to the Suns’ frontcourt heading into finals.

One game remains.

Finals are on the line.

A home final is within reach.

The Women have an opportunity to keep their finals hopes alive, while the Men are chasing a result that could earn the reward of hosting a finals game at The Furnace.

The regular season finishes here. Leave nothing behind.